Coast Guard to get 40 new patrol boats

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. with Philippine Coast Guard commandant Artemio Abu boards the BRP Malabrigo, which usually patrols the West Phil Sea during the 122th Founding anniversary of the Philippine Coast Guard on Tuesday, Oct 17, 2023. (Photo by MARIANNE BERMUDEZ  / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the government is acquiring 40 patrol boats to boost the capability of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the face of China’s continued aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

Speaking to reporters after leading the 122nd anniversary of the PCG, the President said the 15-meter patrol vessels are being built in Cebu.

But he did not say the amount spent for the building of the patrol boats.

He told reporters: “We are continuing with the upgrading of the equipment, the training, and the capabilities of all our people, especially the Coast Guard, not only because they are on the front line in the problems now that we are facing in the West Philippine Sea, but also because of the very important function that they play when it comes to search and rescue, when it comes to maritime incidents, when it comes to even disaster assistance.”

‘Call of duty’

The new vessels, according to Marcos, would give the Philippines “an increased capability,” particularly in patrolling Philippine waters.

“We will eventually have 40 of them that will give us an increased capability. This is ongoing,” he said.

In his speech during the PCG’s anniversary, the President lauded the PCG for its pivotal role in “upholding our country’s maritime security and promoting our maritime rights.”

He thanked PCG personnel for their “continued promotion and protection of our country’s sovereignty” and for “being at the forefront of our efforts to ensure that our fishers and their fishing rights are respected and recognized throughout our vast maritime areas.”

“Suffice it to say, your accomplishments in the performance of your duty have consistently championed our country and our people’s rights and welfare in the face of daunting adversity and difficulties,” he said.

“Despite all the challenges, the Coast Guard has unwaveringly answered the call of duty,” he added.

Medals

During the ceremony, Marcos cited Commodore Jay Tarriela for his courage, competency and patriotism as the adviser to the commandant on maritime security affairs and as spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea.

Tarriela was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal and Ribbon “for the publication of factual narratives on the issues and concerns and for the release of compelling images thus igniting the Filipinos’ sense of patriotism.”

Marcos also conferred on CG PO3 Jason Nicol and CG SN1 Joseph Rivera the Distinguished Coast Guard Cross Medal and Ribbon for their role in cutting the rope barriers installed by the China Coast Guard (CCG) southeast of Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal).

The president then awarded Distinguished Coast Cross Medals and Ribbon to the captain and crew of BRP Malapascua (MRRV 4403) and BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4402) for their successful operations in the West Philippine Sea, represented by CG Capt. Rodel Hernandez and CG CDR Julio Colarina.

PCG District Palawan was honored as Coast Guard District of the Year. INQ President Marcos said the new vessels would give the Philippines ‘an increased capability,’ particularly in patrolling Philippine waters