THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the acquisition of new boats will definitely help it fight illegal activities and increase its capability to enforce the country’s maritime laws.
That is why PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for supporting the P29.3-billion budget that will allow the PCG to acquire five new 97-meter multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) under Phase 3 of the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP).
Gavan said during the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board meeting chaired by the Chief Executive himself yesterday that the P29.3-billion budget covers the design, construction, and delivery of five MRRVs through a Japan Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan.
The PCG Commandant likewise shared that during the meeting, President Marcos emphasized the need to improve the PCG’s capability to combat illegal activities and enforce maritime laws in the country’s exclusive economic zones (EEZs).
“With meaningful approval from the NEDA Board, the five-year integrated logistics support would allow us to enhance our maritime security operations, specifically in the West Philippine Sea, Southern Philippines, and Benham Rise,” CG Admiral Gavan said.
“Rest assured, the PCG will continue to protect our territory, sovereignty, and sovereign rights anchored on rules-based and peaceful approaches for the benefit of Filipino fishermen and our fellow Filipinos who stand for what is rightfully ours,” the Coast Guard Commandant furthered.