Press Release - Gatchalian files bill seeking to modernize Philippine Coast Guard amid continuing tensions in West Philippine Sea

Senator Win Gatchalian filed a bill seeking to modernize the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) amid continuing tensions with China in the West Philippine Sea.

Senate Bill 2516, which if enacted into law will be known as the PCG Modernization Act, will provide for a modernization program that aims to enhance PCG's assets and facilities, bolster its capabilities, and strengthen the effective implementation of its mandate under Republic Act 9993 or the Philippine Coast Guard Law.

Specifically, the bill aims to develop a more mobile and visible coast guard force that will establish its vision of a "world-class guardian of the sea" by 2025, acquire and upgrade appropriate technology and equipment, and strategically improve and construct bases, installations, and other PCG facilities.

"It cannot be overemphasized that the PCG plays a crucial role in the country's pursuit of ensuring maritime safety and security, environmental protection and search, rescue, and disaster response," Gatchalian said, noting worsening tensions between Manila and Beijing over the latter's continuing incursions into the Philippine waters.

"With the advent of various maritime issues currently faced by the country from maritime disasters and incidents such as oil spills, ship collisions, and grounding to ongoing harassment in the West Philippine Sea, there is a need to continuously modernize and enhance the capabilities of the PCG to respond to all these incidents effectively," he added.

The proposed measure also provides for the creation of the PCG Modernization Trust Fund, which shall be allocated an initial amount of P1 billion. "Given the vast expanse of the country's maritime domain, it is imperative that our government provides the necessary support to have a responsive and well-equipped PCG with enhanced technical and legal capabilities in maritime safety, maritime security, maritime search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, and maritime environmental protection to ensure our maritime presence," Gatchalian emphasized.

According to him, the proposed measure is intended to enhance the PCG's capability in upholding the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and sovereign rights of the country,