PCG receives 2 Marine Protector-class patrol boats from US

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) received two Marine Protector-class patrol boats from the United States, which are expected to boost the country's maritime capabilities.

The pair of 27-meter long craft were turned over following the operational and maintenance training of the 24 coast guard crew members in Baltimore, Maryland.

The patrol boats will be commissioned into the Coast Guard Fleet as BRP Pag-asa (PATS-2701) and BRP Patag (PATS-2702) after their scheduled arrival in Manila this October.

“BRP Pag-asa (PATS-2701) and BRP Patag (PATS-2702) will strengthen the Philippine Coast Guard’s operational efficiency in safeguarding the country’s vast waters. They will enhance our ability to conduct maritime safety operations and respond to emergencies at sea, including oil spills and other marine environmental protection challenges,” said PCG Spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab in a statement.

Aside from the PCG and the US Coast Guard, Ghana, Uruguay and Lebanon also operate the class in missions such as drug smuggling, illegal immigration, marine fisheries enforcement and search and rescue support.

The PCG noted that the initiative reflects the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and the US.

Last July, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Manila. The US official's visit underscores US support for “a free and open Indo-Pacific that delivers safety, security, and prosperity for the region and for the American people.” —Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA News