PCG Headquarters, South Harbor, Manila
16 October 2014
President Benigno S. Aquino III graced the Philippine Coast Guard’s 113th Founding Anniversary and witnessed the presentation of the agency’s newly-acquired assets and equipment at the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Headquarters in South Harbor, Manila.
In his message, President Aquino recognized the vital role of PCG in safeguarding and ensuring maritime peace and security in the 36,289 km total Philippine coastline. This includes the agency’s collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to minimize and forestall incidents that could heighten the existing tension in the disputed West Philippine Sea.
He also mentioned several PCG modernization initiatives being undertaken by the government with the acquisition of latest equipment to enhance its operation which includes: 40 rubber boats and 300 aluminium boats for search and rescue operations, 40-meter Multi-Role Responsive Vessels from Japan as part of Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project which will be delivered in instalment with the first vehicle arriving in October 2015, and the target purchase of two additional medium helicopters in 2015.
Other modernization projects include the ongoing construction of 113 lighthouses and the target of building 109 additional lighthouses as soon as lots have been identified that meets the requirement of the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities. He was also pleased to announce the completion of National Coast Watch Center in April 2015.
“Ang lahat po ng mga inisyatibang ito, nakaangkla sa iisang prinsipyo: Ang pagiging handa sa anumang problema o tensyong maaaring maganap sa ating karagatan. Umaga man o gabi, umulan man o umaraw, anumang pagkakataon, dapat, mulat tayo at alerto sa anumang nakambang banta o peligro,” he said.
With the theme: “Matuwid na Pagtatanod Baybayin Tungo sa Maayos at Mapayapang Karagatan”, the event highlights the conferment of awards to deserving Coast Guard officers and personnel as well as civilian entities that have rendered commendable and brilliant services in the conduct of various PCG-related activities and missions.
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