The Philippine Coast Guard has transported fishing boats and fresh supplies to fishermen at the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as part of their commitment to support the community there.
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
PCG spokesperson Rear Adm. Armando Balilo said among the items brought by the Coast Guard to KIG onboard BRP Francisco Dagohoy (MMOV-5002) included two 20-foot fiber-reinforced plastic boats, two units of marine engine (diesel), underwater fittings, 20 PVC black pipes, ropes, and nylon.
The boats and supplies were personally turned over by the PCG to the fishing community from July 3 to 6 “to empower fisherfolk and help them maximize their catch in the West Philippine Sea.”
“BRP Francisco Dagohoy's crew also met with PCG, Philippine Navy, and Philippine Marine Corps personnel assigned at Likas Island, Parola Island, and Pag-asa Island to know their needs and ensure their welfare,” Balilo said in a statement on Tuesday, July 11.
Last month, the PCG had also assisted the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) in transporting nearly P5 million worth of equipment and capacity-building programs to fisherfolk groups in Pag-asa Island.
Religious leaders enter PCG service
As this developed, six religious leaders entered the PCG service as the organization continues to grow its manpower.
PCG Commandant Adm. Artemio Abu presided over the donning and oath-taking ceremony of three priests, two pastors, and one imam at the PCG National Headquarters in Manila on Monday, July 10.
The religious leaders received the rank “lieutenant” along with two veterinarians.
Moreover, 11 graduates from the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP) and Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) were also commissioned into the Coast Guard service with the rank of "Ensign."
"We place in your hands the responsibility of leading your respective units as we leave the Covid-19 pandemic behind and welcome the new normal," Abu said.
"The responsibility given to you is not to be taken lightly. This will take effort, strength, and mental fortitude," he added.