RETIRED Vice Admiral Rene Villena Medina tendered his resignation as executive director of the STCW Office of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) on Friday (June 17).
In a letter to President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Medina said he resigned to give way to the new administration, adding that he already completed his tasks for the STCW Office.
“With the feeling of having accomplished nearly all the goals that I have set to do for this organization and to give way to your incoming administration, I am now tendering my courtesy resignation at the Marina, as the executive director of the STCW Office,” he said.
He believes he is leaving the office with a legacy of dignity and integrity that is expected of a public servant. “I am confident that the next in line can expect a smooth turn-over of all documents and responsibilities. It has been my pleasure and honor to serve this government, especially to be of service to our Filipino seafarers who continuously sail the seven seas.”
“May this courtesy resignation take effect upon approval,” Medina said.
Medina was appointed as executive director of the STCW Office on March 30, 2021. At that time, he was tasked to ensure the Philippines’ full compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention, 1978, as amended.
Before his appointment, he served as the commander of the naval forces in Western Mindanao, the largest naval operating command in the country for two years.
In the earlier years of his career, Medina served the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in different capacities.
He was the port state control officer of South Harbor Manila, and the commander of the Sealift Amphibious Force and commander of Naval Education and Training Command.
Medina received the esteemed Order of the Lapu-Lapu, which was personally awarded to him by President Duterte. The Order of the Lapu-Lapu is a national order of merit granted to those who have exhibited an extraordinary standard of service in their respective positions.
