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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH activates coast guard district in Kalayaan Island Group to boost WPS presence

PH activates coast guard district in Kalayaan Island Group to boost WPS presence

Published Apr 10, 2026 02:08 pm
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) unveiled a new command center in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) on Thursday, April 9, to strengthen the country’s maritime security and sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Sec. Giovanni Lopez led the activation of the Coast Guard District-KIG in a ceremony on Barangay Pag-asa, Kalayaan, Palawan, which coincided with the country’s observance of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor).
The KIG, which includes Pag-asa (Thitu) Island, forms part of the Philippines’ claims in the WPS, an area also contested by other countries, most notably China. The government has increased patrols and civilian presence there in recent years to reinforce its claim and support Filipino fishermen amid Chinese aggression.
“This is not merely a symbol. It is a permanent step to show that our coast guard is ready to defend our interests at sea and protect our fellow fishermen, their livelihood, and above all, our sovereignty,” Lopez said.
The activation occurred after an order from President Marcos Jr. to expand coast guard presence across strategic coastal areas to improve maritime law enforcement and territorial defense.
Gavan said the new district will serve as both a security outpost and a support hub for Filipinos in the area. Meanwhile, Senator Erwin Tulfo, who joined the visit, pledged legislative backing for the PCG.
PCG spokesperson for the WPS, Rear Adm. Jay Tarriela said the activation elevates the existing coast guard unit into a full district command led by a senior officer with the rank of commodore or one-star general.
He said this allows more experienced leadership in a strategically sensitive area such as Pag-asa Island, where Chinese presence has been frequently observed.
The PCG will also deploy dedicated vessels and aircraft under the new district, which will cover not only security patrols but also search and rescue (SAR) operations and environmental protection.
The upgrade will require expanded infrastructure and Tarriela said these include new buildings and improved installations across occupied features in the island group. He said additional logistics and funding will support wider operations.
“This milestone strengthens not only maritime governance but also the Philippine Coast Guard’s commitment to holistic service and nation-building in the Kalayaan Island Group,” Tarriela said.

Related Tags

PCG coast guard district Kalayaan Island Group Pag-asa Island West Philippine Sea
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