Historic Promotion for First Female Pilot
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has elevated the first female pilot of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to the rank of commodore. This significant advancement highlights her dedication and trailblazing role within the maritime service.
Commodore Christine Pauline Bergaño-Diciano’s promotion was confirmed last Wednesday following a recommendation from the Transportation Secretary, according to statements from local sources. Since becoming the PCG’s first female pilot in 2005, she has made remarkable contributions, including her inaugural flight in 2006.
Leadership and Service Amid Challenges
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Bergaño-Diciano led numerous aerial missions to deliver medical supplies to remote communities, demonstrating her commitment to public service. In 2010, she broke another barrier by becoming the first and only female PCG Air Station commander under the West Philippine Sea’s Oplan Matatag.
Her leadership extended internationally when, in 2014, she was appointed the first Asian vice president of the World Maritime University’s Women’s Association in Malmö, Sweden.
Advocacy and Command Roles
In 2022, Bergaño-Diciano took on the role of Coast Guard Aviation Force commander. During this time, she championed the inclusion of female rescue swimmers and drivers, promoting gender equality within the force.
She also led the PCG’s Gender and Development unit, advocating for the addition of the hijab to the uniform of female Muslim Coast Guard personnel. This initiative earned recognition from the United Nations Human Rights Council, reflecting its positive impact.
Comprehensive Service and Awards
Before her recent promotion, Bergaño-Diciano served in various key units including Coast Guard Education, Training and Doctrine Command, Human Resource Management, Internal Audit, Procurement, and Logistics Systems Command. She also acted as superintendent of the Coast Guard School for Special Maritime Affairs and directed the Leadership and Doctrine Development Center.
Her outstanding service was honored this year during Women’s Month when she received the “Pilak Award” for Natatanging Juana ng Tanod Baybayin ng Pilipinas.
Words of Wisdom from a Trailblazer
Commodore Bergaño-Diciano shares inspiring advice based on her journey: “Whatever you are working on – may it be in tactical and operational works and strategic ingenuities, be perpetual learners. Success, after all, is being grateful for our meaningful journeys and our happy and contented disposition on the lifework, we honor daily. Life’s journey requires introspect and self-transcendence.”
She further adds, “There is no service so small. So, in all chances, choices and changes, own it. Practice mindfulness and embrace impermanence. Cultivate passion and compassion. Rediscover yourselves and grow from it. It is in the heart, kindness, grace, inspiration, love and all our faculties that we can support each other.”
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