House of Representatives (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)

A measure that seeks to introduce policy and organizational reforms in the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)--a relevant agency in the ongoing West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue--has been approved by the House Committee on Transportation. 

Hurdling the committee level Wednesday, March 19 was House Bill (HB) No.11433, titled the Revised Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Law. It was principally sponsored by Romblon lone district Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona.

If and when enacted, the measure would amend certain provisions of Republic Act (RA) No. 9993, or the PCG Law. 

During a public hearing of the committee on Wednesday, Madrona says he is pushing for the measure to clarify the powers of key PCG officers, categorize PCG personnel properly, classify PCG ranks and establish a structured disciplinary and retirement benefits system.

HB No.11433 also aims to enhance the PCG’s capability in maritime safety, security and environmental protection.  

PCG Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan supported the passage of the bill as a way to address longstanding structural and operational gaps in the PCG.

"We are very, very hopeful that this measure, which is very necessary to enhance our policy and organizational initiatives to reform, will be given due course," he said .

Department of Budget Management (DBM) Acting Director Trisha Baraan raised her concern about duplication of emergency and medical assistance, as provided in the bill. 

"PCG already has a hospital that is funded under the GAA, so baka hindi na po kailangan ang Emergency and Medical Assistance in the bill (so maybe Emergency and Medical Assistance aren't needed in the bill)," Baraan, a lawyer, said.  

Gavan asked that the DBM reconsider its position, and stressed the need for broader medical support. 

"We are really appealing to have that provision included considering that the [PCG] s broadly dispersed across the archipelago. While we might have a hospital in the National Capital Region (NCR), it cannot address the needs of our people in the countryside. So it is more practical, it is more responsive to have an emergency medical fund to cover the needs of the people," he said.  

Madrona noted that further deliberations will be conducted to refine the proposed measure before it is presented to the plenary for the House's approval. 

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary Hector Villacorta and other resource persons from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group, PCG Retirees Association, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Justice (DOJ), Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the National Security Council (NSC) have all expressed support for the intent of the bill.

1-Rider Party-list Rep. Bonifacio Bosita was the one who moved for the panel approval of HB No.11433.