Estrada wants more funds for PH Coast Guard

AUGUST 18, 2024 BRP Teresa Magbanua at Escoda Shoal. June 12, 2024. PCG PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada on Monday called for increased funding for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) following BRP Teresa Magbanua’s pullout from Escoda Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a statement, Estrada said the government must address the logistical requirements of the PCG to fully support its mission of upholding the nation’s territorial integrity.

“This is particularly crucial given the challenges they have encountered, as exemplified by the case of BRP Teresa Magbanua,” he said.

“Increasing budgetary support is essential to ensure that all deployed vessels receive adequate provisions and regular maintenance to sustain seaworthiness,” he added.

BRP Teresa Magbanua was stationed at Escoda Shoal in response to the presence of Chinese maritime militias and suspected Chinese reclamation activities in the area.

READ: ‘Monster’ vs Magbanua: New source of tension

However, the PCG earlier bared that its most modern vessel was forced to return to port due to unfavorable weather conditions, lack of daily supplies, and structural damage due to the August 31 ramming incident in the WPS.

The PCG said it will continue to deploy ships to Escoda despite BRP Teresa Magbanua’s pullout.

READ: West Philippine Sea: Several factors force BRP Teresa Magbanua to return – PCG

Estrada said the government must provide medical and welfare support to the crew of BRP Teresa Magbanua, and invest in technologies that will enable Philippine vessels to operate effectively during inclement weather.

“Nararapat na bigyan natin ang kaukulang suporta ang PCG na hindi natitinag ang propesyonalismo at pagiging matatag na puwersa sa pagtatanggol sa ating maritime territories at pagprotekta sa ating pambansang interes,” he said.

(We must support the PCG whose professionalism and strong force do not yield when it protects our maritime territories and national interest.)