25 April 2014 – The Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu attended the Change of Command ceremony during which retiring Captain John M. Figuerres, United States Navy, was relieved by Commander Timothy B. Wilke, United States Navy on April 22 at Historic Building No. 26, Ford Island, Pearl Harbor.

Captain Figuerres is a Filipino- American and his relatives came from California to witness the ceremony. He commanded the US Navy Afloat Training Group, Middle Pacific, the group responsible for training Navy officers and engineers. In his speech, Captain Figuerres praised his officers and staff for their support. He encouraged them to enjoy their posting amid the numerous challenges, to never neglect their health and family. He said that today’s Navy faces greater challenges, but the funds are tighter.

After the ceremony, Philippine Consul Roberto T. Bernardo and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Liaison Officer Col. Restituto Padilla, Jr. congratulated Captain Figuerres and Commander Wilke. They also met several US Navy officers who are Filipino- Americans. END