Manila - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is set to significantly boost its maritime security capabilities with the acquisition of five 97-meter multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) from Japan. PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for supporting the PHP29.3 billion budget for the acquisition under the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phase 3. The project is part of an official development assistance loan from Japan.
According to Philippines News Agency, the NEDA (National Economic and Development Authority) Board's approval will enhance the PCG's operations, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, Southern Philippines, and Benham Rise.
During the NEDA Board meeting chaired by President Marcos, the importance of improving the PCG's capabilities to combat illegal activities and enforce maritime laws in the country's exclusive economic zones (EEZ) was highlighted. Gavan assured that the PCG remains committed to protecting the nation's territory, sovereignty, and sovereign rights through rules-based and peaceful approaches. The NEDA board, during its meeting, also approved two other high-impact infrastructure projects: the Department of Agrarian Reform's 'Pang-Agraryong Tulay Para sa Bagong Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka (PBBM)' bridges project and the revised parameters for the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway extension project.