The U.S. military and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recently completed their first-ever joint tactical combat casualty care training to boost the country's capability in maritime security and rescue operations.
The training, which was held on Oct. 4 to 6, was participated in by members of the U.S. Civilian Military Support Element-Philippines (CMSE-PHL) and PCG North Eastern Luzon District (PCGNELZ).
According to the US Embassy in Manila, it was aimed at strengthening the medical capabilities of both forces who work in a wide range of environments during maritime and land-based operations.
About 20 Coast Guard men were trained on Basic Life Saving and Tactical Combat Casualty Care academic and practical sections.
“This training event has been the first time our district has been able to train together with our U.S. partners, but we certainly hope it will not be the last. This medical training will be a great benefit to the communities we serve, and we look forward to our continuing partnership,” said Lt. j.g. Dennis Rapal, PCGNELZ chief of staff.
The training was designed to enhance the ability of the Coast Guard in responding to both maritime security operations and search and rescue operations.
Through training scenarios designed to simulate emergencies during maritime law enforcement, maritime security, and maritime search and rescue operations, the 20 students were trained on skills to manage an injury on the spot to provide valuable skills in aiding both fellow PCG personnel and any civilian when needed.
"This training partnership exemplifies the close relationship between U.S. and Philippine friends, partners, and allies in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region by strengthening maritime law enforcement and maritime search and rescue," the US Embassy said in a statement.