Duterte to PCG: ‘Keep upholding PH maritime security’

SIMEON CELI JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO/PNA

MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday tasked the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to continue its efforts in upholding the country’s maritime security.

“I urge the entire Philippine Coast Guard to build on its accomplishments and to continue its efforts in upholding our country’s maritime security,” Duterte said in his speech during the 117th Anniversary of PCG at the Port Area in Manila.

“More than ever, we need brave men and women like you in safeguarding our seas and shores, especially at this period when our resources are becoming crucial to the progress of our economy,” he added.

He also encouraged the PCG to remain committed as “defenders of the land and protectors” of the Filipino people.

Duterte assured that his administration will remain committed to strengthen the PCG’s capabilities by raising its standards through streamlined infrastructure and modernized equipment.

He said reforms the PCG has instituted since 2016 have been bearing fruit.

“The PCG’s acquisition of new weapons, equipment and several multi-purpose response vessels and fast patrol boats complete with modern computerized systems has indeed helped enhance our law enforcement capabilities,” Duterte said.

“Evidently, the success of the PCG would not have been possible without the contributions of its officers, its enlisted men.

Their personal achievements which have pushed for the developments that are crucial in making the agency more efficient and responsive to the challenges of the times and to the demands of our citizens,” he added.

He commended the country’s coast guards for fulfilling their mandate to enforce maritime law, protect the environment and secure the maritime territories.

“The agency’s more than a century of service to the Filipino people has indeed been fruitful and is worthy of recognition. I congratulate the PCG for its achievements which have led to the institution’s greater participation in our collective task of nation-building,” he said.

Duterte is hoping the accomplishments that the PCG is celebrating would inspire everyone to work harder for the common good.

“Take this day as an opportunity to seek encouragement from your fellow troops as you advance the causes of PCG,” Duterte said.

The PCG is an armed and uniformed service under the Department of Transportation primarily tasked to enforce all laws within the Philippine waters, conduct maritime security operations, safeguard of life and property at sea and protect the marine environment and resources.