PCG to acquire 40 Ph made vessels
By Nidz Godino
"We will eventually have 40 patrol boats and that will give us increased capability…this is ongoing," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said government is acquiring 40 patrol boats to enhance Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)'s capability to defend country's maritime territory.
During PCG's 122nd anniversary in Manila, FMJ said vessels are being built in Cebu and are intended to help PCG perform its functions.
"We can see that our capability to defend our maritime domain, sovereign territory of Philippines, is increasing," he stressed.
Acquisition of 15-meter patrol boats is in line with administration's effort to upgrade equipment and strengthen capabilities of PCG.
FMJ did not say how much would be spent to acquire vessels.
"We are continuing with upgrading of equipment, training and capabilities of all our people, especially coast guard, not only because they are in frontline of problems we are facing in West Philippine Sea, but also because of very important function they play when it comes to search and rescue, maritime incidents, when it comes disaster assistance, 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,". President added.
FMJ thanked PCG for providing steadfast service and dedication to duty during times of calamity, upholding Philippines' maritime security and promoting its maritime rights, fighting against entry of smuggled goods, protecting marine environment and securing safety of fisherfolk as they pursue their means of livelihood.
"Be assured this administration firmly stands with you in your plans and efforts to improve, expand and modernize capabilities and services so that you may better contribute to security and welfare of our people and nation," Chief Executive said.
As part of celebration of PCG's 122nd anniversary, FMJ honored coast guard personnel who rendered exceptional performance, including those who upheld country's rights over West Philippine Sea.
Coast guard distinguished service medal and ribbon were awarded to Commodore Jay Tarriela for demonstrating "distinguished and commendable competency, courage and patriotism" as adviser to commandant on maritime security affairs and as PCG spokesman for West Philippine Sea.
Distinguished coast guard cross medal and ribbon were awarded to Petty Officer 3 Jason Nicol and Seaman First Joseph Rivera, who cut rope barriers placed by Chinese coast guard at southeast entrance of Scarborough or Panatag Shoal.
Same award was given to BRP Malapascua "for meritorious courage, bravery and patriotism in face of danger resulted in success of coast guard operations in West Philippine Sea.
Ship was involved in resupply missions in Ayungin Shoal.
BRP Malabrigo, hit by Chinese coast guard water cannon, also received award.
Also feted were PCG District Palawan headed by its commander Captain Dennis Labay; coast guard stations Manila, Malacañang and Sorsogon; PCG substation Tanza, Petty Officer 1 Ronald Empeñado, non-uniformed personnel Gloria Ricafrente and lighthouse keeper Antonio Beruela.
"Despite dangers of operating in West Philippine Sea, coast guard continues to fulfill its mission of ensuring we do not yield even square inch our territory to any foreign power," PCG chief Artemio Abu said
No comments:
Post a Comment