SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go continues to advocate for maritime security and disaster preparedness through Senate Bill No. 2112, also known as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Modernization Bill.
Highlighting the critical role of the PCG in national security and disaster response, Go underscored the importance of upgrading its capabilities to meet international standards. He noted that the modernization effort is not just about enhancing maritime security but also ensuring faster response during emergencies.
“Our Coast Guard is the first line of defense sa ating mga karagatan. Napakalaki ng kanilang papel, hindi lamang sa seguridad ng bansa kundi pati sa pagtulong tuwing may kalamidad. Kailangan nilang maibigay ang mga kagamitan at training na nararapat para mas epektibo nilang magampanan ang kanilang tungkulin,” Go stated.
The PCG Modernization Bill seeks to provide the PCG with advanced vessels, aircraft, and state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring the service can effectively respond to maritime threats such as smuggling and terrorism while also addressing humanitarian needs during natural disasters.
In a recent announcement, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan revealed that the government, with the support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has approved the acquisition of 46 new vessels over the next five to seven years. These include five 97-meter cutters from Japan and 40 smaller vessels from France. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Philippine Red Cross are also set to transfer assets to the PCG, further boosting its fleet.
Admiral Gavan emphasized the importance of a rules-based approach in asserting the Philippines’ maritime rights, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). He also highlighted the PCG’s increasing personnel strength, with 4,000 new recruits expected by year-end.
Go, who has also been a vocal proponent of disaster preparedness and response, stressed the dual role of the PCG in safeguarding the nation’s waters and providing emergency assistance.
“Ang PCG ay hindi lang tagapagtanggol ng ating mga karagatan. Sila rin ang sumasaklolo kapag may bagyo o sakuna. Napakahalaga na mapalakas ang kanilang kakayahan sa parehong aspeto,” he said.
If the modernization bill is passed and enacted into law, the PCG will be better equipped to deal with emergencies such as oil spills, maritime accidents, and illegal fishing, ensuring that communities in coastal areas are protected and livelihoods are preserved.
Go’s legislative push for the PCG modernization aligns with his broader vision for improved public service delivery and national security. “Kailangan nating ipakita sa mundo na kaya nating protektahan ang ating soberanya at tumulong sa mga nangangailangan, lalo na sa panahon ng sakuna,” he remarked.
Go has previously denounced aggressive acts by China in the WPS, notably when a CCG vessel used water cannons against a Filipino boat trying to deliver supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre, which is grounded at Ayungin Shoal, and another involving the use of a military-grade laser against a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel.
