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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Gatchalian files bill seeking to modernize PH Coast Guard amid continuing tensions in WPS

Gatchalian files bill seeking to modernize PH Coast Guard amid continuing tensions in WPS

Published Dec 18, 2023 07:20 am

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has joined other senators in pushing for a measure seeking to modernize the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) amid the worsening tensions between Manila and Beijing over the latter’s continuing incursions into the West Philippine Sea.

 

In filing Senate Bill No. 2516, or the proposed PCG Modernization Act, Gatchalian sought a modernization program for PCG that would enhance its assets and facilities, bolster its capabilities, and strengthen the effective implementation of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Law.

 

Gatchalian said the bill aims to develop a more mobile and visible coast guard force that will establish its vision of a “world-class guardian of the sea” by 2025.

 

The measure also seeks to improve PCG’s acquisition of appropriate technology and equipment, and strategically improve and construct bases, installations, and other PCG facilities.

 

“It cannot be overemphasized that the PCG plays a crucial role in the country’s pursuit of ensuring maritime safety and security, environmental protection and search, rescue, and disaster response,” Gatchalian said.

 

“With the advent of various maritime issues currently faced by the country from maritime disasters and incidents such as oil spills, ship collisions, and grounding to ongoing harassment in the West Philippine Sea, there is a need to continuously modernize and enhance the capabilities of the PCG to respond to all these incidents effectively,” he added.

 

The measure seeks to provide for the creation of the PCG Modernization Trust Fund, which shall be allocated an initial amount of P1-billion.

 

“Given the vast expanse of the country’s maritime domain, it is imperative that our government provides the necessary support to have a responsive and well-equipped PCG with enhanced technical and legal capabilities in maritime safety, maritime security, maritime search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, and maritime environmental protection to ensure our maritime presence,” the lawmaker stressed.

 

The bill also seeks to enhance the PCG's capability in upholding the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and sovereign rights of the country, ensuring the safety and security of its maritime domain against all forms of maritime incidents and transnational crimes, among others.

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