27/02/2026
TRUTH DOES NOT CHANGE — ONLY NARRATIVES DO.
What is documented remains true. What is recognized by law stands firm. The contributions of a Filipino whose impact on maritime history is rooted in evidence, not interpretation, continue to inspire. 🇵🇭⚓
⚓ Admiral Tomás Cloma
Discoverer of the Kalayaan Island Group — Claimed and named this part of the Spratly Islands in 1956, asserting Philippine sovereignty.
🏅 Legion of Honor Awardee — Honored in 1996 during the administration of Fidel V. Ramos for his pioneering role in asserting Philippine claims over Kalayaan.
📘 Philippine Father of Maritime Education — Pioneered formal maritime education and founded the Philippine Maritime Institute (now PMI Colleges, Inc.) in 1948.
📜 Established by historical record. Affirmed by national law.
🔹 1956 — Notice to the Whole World Issued
Cloma publicly proclaimed the discovery and peaceful occupation of the Kalayaan Island Group, documenting 33 islands, reefs, and shoals.
🔹 1978 — Foundation of Presidential Decree No. 1596
His documented claims became the legal basis for incorporating Kalayaan into Philippine territory.
🌊 A Legacy Anchored in Truth
Beyond territorial assertion, Cloma professionalized maritime education and helped build globally respected Filipino maritime professionals.
His legacy reminds us: history stands on evidence, sovereignty stands on law, and truth stands the test of time.
🇵🇭⚓
