Gatchalian seeks modernization of PH Coast Guard

MANILA, Philippines — In light of the ongoing tension in the West Philippine Sea, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has filed a bill seeking to modernize the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Gatchalian, in his Senate Bill No. 2516 filed in early December, stressed that the PCG plays an important role in the country’s pursuit of ensuring maritime and safety security.

“With the advent of various maritime issues maritime issues faced by the country, from maritime accidents and incidents, such as oil spills, ship collisions and grounding to ongoing harassment in the West Philippine Sea, there is a need to continuously modernize and enhance the capabilities of our PCG to respond to all these incidents effectively,” Gatchalian’s resolution reads.

SBN 2516 will be known as the PCG Modernization Act if enacted into law. The measure specifically pushes for creating the PCG Modernization Trust Fund, which will be allocated an initial amount of P1 billion.

“Given the vast expanse of the country’s maritime domain, it is imperative that our government provides the necessary support to have a responsive and well-equipped PCG with enhanced technical and legal capabilities in maritime safety, maritime security, maritime search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, and maritime environmental protection to ensure our maritime presence,” Gatchalian emphasized in a separate statement issued Monday.

Under Gatchalian’s bill, the PCG Modernization program will be divided into four tiers:

• First Tier: The PCG modernization program shall entail the construction and development of permanent response bases to house all PCG operational units.
• Second Tier: The Development of Infrastructure and Interdiction Capabilities
• Third Tier: Acquisition and Development of Patrol Vessels and Air Capabilities
• Fourth Tier:  Infrastructure and Facilities Development

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