US donates P1.9M worth of equipment for PCG fleet maintenance

The United States government, through the US Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, has donated P1.9 million (US $34,500) worth of equipment to the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) Fleet Maintenance and Repair Group (MRG) workshop in Sangley Point, Cavite.

A statement issued Friday by the US Embassy in the Philippines Information Office quoted Coast Guard Fleet Commander Rear Admiral Rommel Supangan as welcoming the support as “another meaningful step forward” in the cooperation between the PCG and the US Embassy when it comes to promoting maritime security.

“This activity is another important step in our capability buildup to provide the necessary equipment for our MRG,” Supangan said. 

For his part, INL director Kate Riche said, ''INL pledged to continue supporting the MRG as they operationalize their maintenance facility and address vessel sustainment requirements comprehensively across the Coast Guard Fleet.''

Riche also said the transfer of essential equipment and backup power supply would enable a broader and more effective equipment repair program. 

The US Department of Defense funded the construction of the P54 million ($950,000) MRG Workshop in Sangley Point while the INL funded its design and outfitting in partnership with the US Coast Guard.

The INL and other US government agencies are planning additional support for PCG vessel maintenance efforts in the coming year through technical training programs, maintenance and logistic systems planning, as well as equipment donations for vessel operating stations. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA Integrated News