The Philippine Marine Corps conducted the Change of Office Ceremony for the Deputy Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps on 22 September 2026, at Acero Hall, Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Presided over by the Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps, Major General Vicente MAP Blanco III PN(M), the ceremony marked the formal Assumption of Brigadier General Bayani V. Curaming PN(M) as the new Deputy Commandant, PMC, succeeding Major General Gieram R. Aragones PN(M). The event included the Presentation of Awards and Plaque to the Outgoing Deputy Commandant, PMC in recognition of his exemplary service, followed by the solemn Change of Chief Office Ceremony and Handover of the Office Symbol, marking the official transfer of authority and responsibility.

Prior to his appointment, Brigadier General Curaming served as Commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade. A proud member of the Philippine Military Academy “Bantay-Laya” Class of 1994, he brings extensive leadership experience to his new role, with much of his military career shaped by key assignments across Mindanao. He has held various critical leadership positions, including Deputy Commander for Internal Defense Operations, Western Mindanao Command; Chief of Marine Staff, PMC; and, Assistant Chief of Marine Staff for Education and Training, MC8;

In his remarks, Major General Blanco expressed his full trust and confidence in Brigadier General Curaming’s leadership and proven ability to fulfill the heavy responsibilities of Deputy Commandant, PMC.

This transition honors a legacy of dedicated service, signals a smooth handover of leadership, and strengthens the Corps for the missions ahead. The ceremony concluded with Major General Blanco convening all Marine leaders for his Final Command Conference, a meaningful gathering as he prepares to retire from active service.

𝗞𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻, 𝗞𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗸𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗻, 𝗞𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗵𝗮𝗻