The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) received a humanitarian ship, two rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs), and 100 Starlink satellite internet kits from non-government organizations and the private sector on Tuesday, March 18, to augment its assets in protecting the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and bolster its search and rescue missions during calamities.
The turnover ceremony held in South Harbor, Manila was graced by First Lady and PCG Auxiliary Vice Admiral Marie Louise Araneta – Marcos, and spearheaded by PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.
“This is very special for us. We recognize the national government support in our quest for a Bagong Pilipinas, where we have to bring public service right at the doorstep of every Filipino,” Gavan said.
Among the donations was M/V Amazing Grace, a humanitarian ship from the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). Gavan said the PCG will use it to provide medical and humanitarian assistance to remote communities, particularly in coastal areas, making it a vital asset for the PCG.
Meanwhile, two 8.8-meter Barracuda RHIBs were turned over by ride-hailing taxi company Grab Philippines Incorporated to the PCG. The RHIBs will aid in enhancing the PCG’s capacity to conduct search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, and other emergencies both on land and at sea.
Lastly, Space Exploration Technologies Corp (SpaceX) donated the Starlink kits to PCG to further strengthen the agency’s ability to maintain continuous communication and provide real-time reports from its vessels deployed at sea even in the most isolated areas in the country.
Also in attendance were Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, PRC Chairman Richard Gordon, Grab Philippines Regional Head of Corporate Strategy Ms. Grace Vera Cruz, and DFNN Executive Chairman Ramon C. Garcia, representing the local partner of SpaceX in the Philippines.