SLt Christopher Hofing, MARPAC Public Affairs 

  • S3 Neil Pontejos represented the RCN during a Flag Party supporting the visit of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Mark Carney.
  • The Surrey-raised sailor carried the Philippine flag during the ceremony, creating a meaningful personal connection.
  • The experience highlighted the importance of preparation, teamwork, and pride in representing the RCN.

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Sailor 3rd Class (S3) Neil Alen Pontejos, a Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) sailor raised in Surrey, B.C., participated in a Flag Party at the Vancouver Convention Centre on July 2 in support of the official visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. 

For S3 Pontejos, the opportunity to represent the RCN during a high-profile international engagement just months after graduating from basic military training was an experience he will not soon forget. 

“It felt a little bit surreal,” said S3 Pontejos. “I’ve been to the convention centre before as a civilian, but being there in uniform was completely different.” 

Born in the Philippines and raised in B.C. after moving to Canada in 2008, S3 Pontejos enrolled into the RCN on Feb 23 and is currently posted to Naval Fleet School(Pacific) (NFS(P)), where he is awaiting training to become a Naval Communicator. Selected for the Flag Party based on his drill performance, he spent several days rehearsing alongside fellow sailors before the event. 

During the ceremony, S3 Pontejos carried the Philippine flag, adding a personal connection to an already memorable experience. He described seeing the visiting dignitaries in person as a unique moment. 

“I found out the day before that the Prime Minister would actually be there,” he said. “Then suddenly he appeared right in front of us. It was definitely something I wasn’t expecting.” 

For S3 Pontejos, the event reinforced the importance of preparation, teamwork, and attention to detail. Sailors spent days rehearsing movements and ensuring that uniforms met the highest standards before stepping into an environment surrounded by media and public attention. 

“The camaraderie was really noticeable,” said S3 Pontejos. “Everyone was helping each other improve and making sure we were all synchronized.” 

While the event itself was memorable, S3 Pontejos said the greatest source of pride came from representing the RCN. 

“I think what made me most proud was being part of the Navy,” he said. “We were given the responsibility to represent, and I think we did a good job.”