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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider US, DOTr to modernize vessel management, counter signal jamming in Philippine waters

US, DOTr to modernize vessel management, counter signal jamming in Philippine waters

Published Mar 2, 2024 03:51 am

The Department of Transportation (DOtr) is now working with the United States government for the conduct of a feasibility study aimed at improving water traffic management and counter singal jamming within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 

DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said what they are pushing for is the implementation of the  Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), which he said will enable increased awareness and coordination of maritime traffic to address maritime safety issues.

The VTMS integrates data and information collected by advanced sensors, including radar, automatic identification systems, and very high frequency radios to develop a complete picture of the maritime environment for effective traffic management and communication. 

He disclosed that the US government, through the US Embassy in Manila, has already committed to assist the DOTr  for the selection of a consultant that would undertake the feasibility study.

The feasibility study, based on the agreement signed by Bautista and US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson on Saturday, March 2,  will be funded by the US government through a US$1 million grant. 

“The VTMS is vital not just for managing sea traffic, but also provides the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) with advanced communication redundancy. The VTMS will empower the PCG to level up their maritime capabilities.,” said Bautista. 

“Apart from promoting efficient water traffic management at major ports, it looks like we may have a counter-measure to reported incidents of signal jamming inside our EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone),” he added.

Bautista explained that the VTMS is expected to increase the efficiency of maritime traffic in major waterways and ports and provide active monitoring and navigational information for vessels.

For her part, Carlson said the latest grant to the PCG will improve maritime safety and security in the Philippines.

“We are pleased to partner with Philippine authorities to develop an expanded VTMS to better manage maritime traffic, to prevent vessel collisions, and to protect marine environments,” Carlson said.

 

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