The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said that President Marcos has given his approval for the purchase of five additional units of state-of-the-art patrol vessels from the Japanese government.

In a briefing on Thursday, Nov. 9, NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said the government will purchase five 97-meter multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) to strengthen the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)

President Marcos granted approval for the acquisition of more MRRVs during the NEDA Board meeting, which was chaired by the chief executive.

Under phase 3 of the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP), the Department of Transportation will procure the MRRVs for the PCG. The project includes the design, construction, and delivery of five 97-meter-long MRRVs.

Balisacan said this project also includes a five-year integrated logistics support.

“This will further improve the Philippine Coast Guard's capability to respond to threats and incidents within the country’s maritime jurisdiction,” Balisacan said.

“In particular, the project will enable the Coast Guard to secure important sea lines of communication in the West Philippine Sea, Sulu-Celebes Seas, and the Philippine Sea,” the NEDA chief added.

He further stated that it will also help the PCG combat illegal activities and enforce maritime laws in the Philippine waters.

The total project cost is P29.3 billion, which will be financed through an Official Development Assistance or ODA loan from the Government of Japan.

The MSCIP Phase 3 is a project supported by Japan and financed through an ODA loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).