The government of Germany has donated various operational equipment to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to boost its capability to protect the country's maritime territory, an official said Friday, March 15.
German Ambassador to the Philippines, Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke led the turnover of several units of printer, camera, underwater camera, projector, smart TV, desktop computer, and microphone to the PCG leadership, according to PCG spokesperson Rear Adm. Armando Balilo.
The ceremony was held at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila on March 7. The PCG was represented by CG Vice Admiral Allan Victor Dela Vega, the deputy commandant for administration; and CG Rear Admiral Hostillo Arturo Cornelio, the chief of coast guard staff.
"These donations will greatly help enforce the mandated functions of the Command to provide additional support to the efforts of PCG personnel in securing maritime waters and implement maritime security," Cornelio said.
He thanked the German government for their continued partnership and cooperation with the PCG.
"We express our hopes and prayers for the sustained success of all your endeavors as you continue to extend assistance in strengthening the capabilities of partner nations," Cornelio noted.
For his part, Pfaffernoschke said that Germany will continue to support the PCG and its efforts to uphold international rule-based order, global peace, and security.
"Rest assured that Germany will remain a reliable partner in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific," the German envoy furthered.
Germany has been supporting the capacity-building initiatives of the PCG which has been appreciated by President Marcos.
During his visit to Berlin last Tuesday, Marcos expressed interest in expanding the security cooperation of the Philippines with Germany amid increasing tension in the West Philippine Sea.
Such collaboration, according to Marcos, shall "go beyond training" and include new areas such as cyber and maritime domains.