Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr and Bohol Governor Arthur C. Yap signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA ) to promote the protection and safety of the Balicasag Island and the entire Bohol seas on 15 January 2021.
The MOA supports the ongoing construction of the Coast Guard radar station, as well as the establishment of the PCG’s Central Visayas Regional Training Facility in Balicasag Island. It also formalizes the commitment of the Provincial Government of Bohol to install a water desalination facility in the island, supplying the Coast Guard facility with at least 15,000 liters of clean water every day.
During the ceremony, Governor Yap recalled the important function of the PCG during the Dos Palmas incident in 2001, particularly in preventing terrorists in attacking Bohol, specifically guests in the Balicasag Island.
“What stopped them from pushing through was the presence of the Coast Guard Lighthouse Station. As governor, I would like to put down in history that the Coast Guard was the force that protected us during that time by standing on guard and watching over us,” Governor Yap shared.
For his part, Admiral Ursabia assured Governor Yap that the PCG will remain steadfast in its commitment to uphold maritime law enforcement, maritime security, maritime safety, and marine environmental protection in the entire province of Bohol.
Also present during the MOA signing ceremony were Rear Admiral William Isaga of the PCG District Central Visayas, Commodore Allan Corpuz of the PCG District Western Visayas, LTJG Julius Rebucas of the PCG Station Bohol, Captain Holger Horn of the PCG Auxiliary Central Visayas, as well as Admiral Ursabia’s spouse, Mrs. Agnes Ursabia and daughter, Germaine Angela Ursabia.
[Details and Photos Courtesy of Bohol Governor Arthur Yap]
