Actor Dingdong Dantes has been officially recognized as a Naval Combat Engineering Officer of the Philippine Navy, following the completion of a basic course. The certificate was presented to Dingdong by Commodore Rolando Sarmiento in a ceremony at Brigade Training and Doctrine Center, Naval Combat Engineering Brigade Naval Station Jose Francisco in Taguig’s Fort Bonifacio on March 25.
In an Instagram post, Dingdong shared his experience as part of NCEOBC class 07-23, mentioning how his children Sixto and Zia, with wife Marian Rivera, teased him for graduating at 43 years old. Sixto was surprised to see his father in a gala uniform, while Zia humorously referred to him as a student from the second floor of their home.
Reflecting on his accomplishment, Dingdong emphasized the importance of continuous learning, stating, “Even old people can still study and finish anything as long as they want to, because learning should never stop.” He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to acquire new skills as a reservist, acknowledging the positive impact on his professional, family, and personal life.
During the ceremony, Marian pinned the “Riffle Expert Badge” and the “Kapanalig Medal” on Dingdong, a moment he lightheartedly shared on Instagram. Among those who congratulated him on this achievement were Julie Anne San Jose, Jason Abalos, Geneva Cruz, Joross Gamboa, Noel Ferrer, and Rocco Nacino.
Dingdong first became a reservist in the Philippine Marine Reserve Force in 2009 and later rose to the rank of lieutenant commander in the Philippine Navy. With his recent certification as a Naval Combat Engineering Officer, he now holds the rank of major in the Philippine Navy.
