The Indonesian Coast Guard (BAKAMLA) engaged the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in discussions to explore avenues for collaboration, particularly in the area of joint training, to address shared maritime challenges.
The delegates from the BAKAMLA, led by First Adm. Basri Mustari, director of sea operation, were briefed on the PCG’s training programs for officers and non-officers when they visited the country from June 19 to 20.
The Indonesian delegation met with PCG commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan and PCG deputy commandant for operations Vice Adm. Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr.
“During the visit, both agencies emphasized the exchange of knowledge and best practices as integral to enhancing their capabilities and addressing maritime security challenges. The discussions focused on identifying opportunities for joint initiatives and strengthening bilateral maritime cooperation,” PCG spokesperson Rear Adm. Armando Balilo said on Saturday, June 22.
The foreign delegates learned about the PCG’s functional commands covering maritime safety, maritime security and law enforcement, and marine environmental protection, as well as the capacity-building programs received by the PCG.
Gavan highlighted the PCG’s pivotal role in maintaining peace and promoting a rules-based order in the region.
He also expressed optimism for the swift conclusion of the revised Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the PCG and BAKAMLA on maritime security cooperation.
The PCG chief also underscored the significance of the establishment of the common protocols and procedures for member-states of the ASEAN Coast Guard Forum (ACF), particularly the Southeast Asia Protocols for Engagement at Sea between Coast Guard and other Maritime Law Enforcement Agencies (SEA-PEACE).
SEA-PEACE seeks to establish the common guidelines for encounters at sea among ASEAN Coast Guards.
Meanwhile, as part of the visit, the BAKAMLA delegation visited some PCG facilities such as the Fleet Education Training Development Institute in Balagtas, Bulacan and the PCG's capital ship, BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV 9702).