The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the United States have launched a ₱140-million program aimed at enhancing the PCG’s fleet operations and maritime law enforcement capabilities, marking another step toward stronger security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
The initiative was formally launched on Friday aboard the BRP Gabriela Silang, led by PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, during a ceremony held at Pier 13, Port Area, Manila.
Ambassador Carlson described the initiative as more than just an investment in maritime assets, highlighting that it represents an investment in people.
Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and implemented through the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), the three-year program will provide:
- 113 training courses and on-the-job training opportunities for PCG personnel in the United States, and
- 60 formal courses and engagements with subject-matter experts to be conducted in the Philippines.
According to the PCG, the cooperation will include technical training on vessel operations and maintenance, on-the-job training aboard USCG ships and facilities, and advisory support to strengthen PCG doctrines and procedures for fleet management and personnel training.
Admiral Gavan expressed gratitude to Ambassador Carlson and the U.S. government for their continued support, emphasizing that the partnership goes beyond improving technical capabilities.
He said the program underscores the shared commitment of the Philippines and the U.S. to ensuring maritime security and stability in the region.
The initiative comes amid heightened tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where the PCG plays a crucial role in asserting the country’s maritime rights and protecting Filipino fishermen and vessels operating within the country’s exclusive economic zone.