PCG installs 5 floating sovereign markers for safe voyage in WPS

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday completed the installation of five buoys on four different islands in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) to mark the country’s territorial waters and to guide mariners passing through the areas.

In a Laging Handa briefing, PCG Rear Admiral Bobby Patrimonio, commander of the PCG Marine Environmental Protection Command, said one buoy was installed on Likas Island, another on Parola Island, one on Lawak Island, and two on Pag-asa Island.

“These are sovereign markers of our country, but ang pinaka-intention lang is to guide our seafarers navigating in that area para magkaroon ng ligtas na paglalayag (but its main intention is to guide our seafarers navigating in that area to ensure safe voyage),” Patrimonio said.

He noted that the buoys would also be a big help to fishermen as the areas they mark are particularly abundant with fish.

In a media bulletin, the PCG said the buoy laying operation was completed by its BRP Corregidor, BRP Bojeador, BRP Suluan, BRP Capones, and Tug Boat Habagat.

PCG Commandant, Admiral Artemio Abu noted that the buoys mark the areas as “special protected zones” where mining and oil exploration are prohibited to preserve its natural resources.

“These buoys are now our source of pride and honor in serving our great nation. And because our fellow Coast Guardians braved numerous dangers during the said noble mission, they were able to bring the PCG to the next level of success,” Abu said.

He said more navigational buoys will soon be placed in other areas within the country’s exclusive economic zone, particularly in the WPS and Benham Rise.