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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PCG opens new surveillance office in Pag-asa Island

PCG opens new surveillance office in Pag-asa Island

Published Dec 1, 2023 09:44 am
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(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) inaugurated a new surveillance station in Pag-asa Island, West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Friday, Dec. 1, to monitor China's activities and counter their increasing aggression in the tension-filled waters.

The Coast Guard Station Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) will be equipped with advanced maritime domain awareness technology such as radar automatic identification, satellite communication, coastal cameras, and vessel traffic management.

"These state-of-the-art systems will significantly enhance the PCG's capability tro monitor the movements of Chinese maritime forces, as well as public vessels and aircraft," said PCG Commandant, Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan.

The PCG chief also shared that the new station will support international shipping by effectively monitoring distressed vessels and providing guidance to passing merchant vessels in its vicinity waters.

The new station was rebuilt after it was destroyed by Super Typhoon Odette in December 2021.

Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano emphasized the multifaceted approach of China in the WPS, which includes formation operations aimed at "creating divisions."  

He stressed the importance of countering such strategy through a "whole-of-nation approach," which would include the active participation of all sectors of the society.

Tension between the Philippines and China have increased in recent months following what defense and security officials described as an "escalation" of aggression by Beijing.

China has consistently made efforts to block Philippine resupply missions in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal which, in one instance, resulted in the collision of Filipino and Chinese vessels. 

Both Pag-asa Island and Ayungin Shoal are maritime features included within the 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Philippines.

But while Pag-asa Island is occupied by Philippine forces and inhabited by Filipino communities, Ayungin Shoal is being guarded by Chinese vessels, making it hard for Filipino fishermen to go to the atoll to earn a living.

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