PCG activates Coast Guard District Kalayaan Island Group in WPS

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has activated the Coast Guard District Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a statement, PCG spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela said a ceremony was held on Pag-asa Island, led by PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.

Transportation Acting Secretary Giovannui Lopez and Senator Erwin Tulfo were also present.

“This milestone has the full support and approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” Tarriela said.

“It ensures that the PCG is fully capable and strongly backed by the national government, in line with the President’s firm commitment to the Filipino people that not an inch of our territory shall be surrendered,” he added.

Objectives

According to Tarriela, there are four primary objectives behind the activation of the new coast guard district in the Kalayaan Island Group.

First, this upgrades the existing Coast Guard unit into a full-fledged major district, which is headed by a Coast Guard commodore to ensure experienced leadership and strategic oversight in the area.

Second, the PCG plans to deploy dedicated assets, including vessels and aircraft, which will be used for maritime security and search and rescue operations, as well as environmental protection.

Third, is for infrastructure development, additional funding, and more logistical support across occupied maritime features in the area. 

Fourth, the new coast guard district will also improve access to essential government services to residents of the Kalayaan local government such for education, healthcare, and even spiritual services. —VAL, GMA News