Filipina Navy Officer from Caloocan Named Junior Officer of the Year

A Filipino-born U.S. Navy officer from Caloocan City has been recognized for her leadership and service after being named Junior Officer of the Year at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) New England.

Lt. Ara Gutierrez, who has served in the Navy for 14 years, currently works with NMRTC New England in Newport, Rhode Island. The honor recognizes her performance, leadership, and contributions to mission readiness within the command.

Reflecting on her journey, Gutierrez said the lessons she learned growing up in the Philippines shaped her leadership style in the military.

“Growing up, I learned that resilience and a strong sense of community are the keys to overcoming any challenge,” Gutierrez said. “Those lessons have been my compass throughout my time in the Navy, where collaboration and teamwork are essential to mission success.”

She added that her hometown instilled in her the values of hard work and excellence, which continue to guide her approach to leadership and teamwork.

“I’ve seen firsthand how people, united by a shared purpose, can achieve extraordinary results, no matter the obstacles,” she said.

Gutierrez said her decision to join the U.S. Navy was driven by gratitude for the opportunities she received in the United States.

“Driven by a deep sense of gratitude to the country that adopted me and provided unparalleled opportunities, I joined the Navy to serve the American people and give back to the nation that has allowed me to become the best version of myself,” she said.

Her recognition adds to the growing list of Filipino and Filipino-American service members making significant contributions across the U.S. armed forces.