Coast Guard to acquire 40 Philippines made vessels

MANILA, Philippines — The government is acquiring 40 patrol boats to enhance the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)’s capability to defend the country’s maritime territory, President Marcos announced yesterday.

During the PCG’s 122nd anniversary in Manila, Marcos said the vessels are being built in Cebu and are intended to help the PCG perform its functions.

“We will eventually have 40 patrol boats and that will give us an increased capability. This is ongoing,” the President said.

“We can see that our capability to defend our maritime (domain), the sovereign territory of the Philippines, is increasing,” he added.

The acquisition of the 15-meter patrol boats is in line with the administration’s effort to upgrade the equipment and strengthen the capabilities of the PCG.

Marcos did not say how much would be spent to acquire the vessels.

“We are continuing with the upgrading of the equipment, the training and the capabilities of all our people, especially the coast guard, not only because they are in the frontline (of) the problems that we are facing in the West Philippine Sea, but also because of the very important function that they play when it comes to search and rescue, maritime incidents, when it comes disaster assistance,” he said.

“The Philippines is lucky as we have many friends around the world and many of our friends from nearby countries and even from distant ones are helping us improve and strengthen our coast guard,” the President added.

Marcos thanked the PCG for providing steadfast service and dedication to duty during times of calamity, upholding the Philippines’ maritime security and promoting its maritime rights, fighting against the entry of smuggled goods, protecting the marine environment and securing the safety of fisherfolk as they pursue their means of livelihood.

“Be assured that this administration firmly stands with you in your plans and efforts to improve, expand and modernize the capabilities and services so that you may better contribute to the security and welfare of our people and of the nation,” the Chief Executive said.

As part of the celebration of the PCG’s 122nd anniversary, Marcos honored coast guard personnel who rendered