NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Australia To Strengthen Philippine Coast Guard Capabilities
Photo credit: Penny Wong
In a significant development highlighting the strong bilateral ties between Australia and the Philippines, Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has announced that the Australian Government will be extending assistance to further strengthen the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Minister Wong made this announcement during her courtesy visit to the PCG National Headquarters in Port Area, Manila, on May 17, 2023.
The assistance provided by Australia will include the provision of drone equipment, training, and technology to the PCG. This initiative aims to enhance maritime cooperation between the Philippines and Australia, emphasizing their joint commitment to peace and security in the region.
During her visit, Minister Wong expressed Australia's support for the Philippines in maintaining peace and security in the region, acknowledging the vital role played by the Philippines in ensuring stability and security. She stated, "Australia is working with the Philippines to support peace and security in our region. We both want a region that is peaceful and where international law is respected."
The announcement was met with gratitude by PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, who thanked Minister Wong and the Australian Government for their commitment to augmenting the Coast Guard's capability development programs. Admiral Abu particularly highlighted the importance of the vessel acquisition projects supported by Australia, which will not only enhance the protection of Filipino fishermen at sea but also strengthen the security of the Philippines' exclusive economic zones.
This move by Australia to bolster PCG capabilities is a testament to the strong cooperation and friendship between the two nations. It signifies a shared commitment to upholding maritime security, safeguarding territorial integrity, and promoting peace in the region. The provision of drone equipment, training, and technology will undoubtedly enhance the PCG's capacity to respond to maritime challenges effectively and ensure the safety of seafarers.
The strengthening of the Philippine Coast Guard's capabilities will have a positive impact on the maritime domain, promoting a secure and stable environment for all nations involved. With Australia's support, the PCG will be better equipped to address maritime threats, conduct search and rescue operations, and enforce maritime laws.
The assistance provided by Australia will include the provision of drone equipment, training, and technology to the PCG. This initiative aims to enhance maritime cooperation between the Philippines and Australia, emphasizing their joint commitment to peace and security in the region.
During her visit, Minister Wong expressed Australia's support for the Philippines in maintaining peace and security in the region, acknowledging the vital role played by the Philippines in ensuring stability and security. She stated, "Australia is working with the Philippines to support peace and security in our region. We both want a region that is peaceful and where international law is respected."
The announcement was met with gratitude by PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, who thanked Minister Wong and the Australian Government for their commitment to augmenting the Coast Guard's capability development programs. Admiral Abu particularly highlighted the importance of the vessel acquisition projects supported by Australia, which will not only enhance the protection of Filipino fishermen at sea but also strengthen the security of the Philippines' exclusive economic zones.
This move by Australia to bolster PCG capabilities is a testament to the strong cooperation and friendship between the two nations. It signifies a shared commitment to upholding maritime security, safeguarding territorial integrity, and promoting peace in the region. The provision of drone equipment, training, and technology will undoubtedly enhance the PCG's capacity to respond to maritime challenges effectively and ensure the safety of seafarers.
The strengthening of the Philippine Coast Guard's capabilities will have a positive impact on the maritime domain, promoting a secure and stable environment for all nations involved. With Australia's support, the PCG will be better equipped to address maritime threats, conduct search and rescue operations, and enforce maritime laws.
May 19, 2023
