U.S. To Fund More Capacity-building Programs for the PCG, Philippine Maritime Law Enforcement Agencies

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris announces that the United States will provide additional funding to support the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and other Philippine maritime law enforcement agencies on board BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) in Puerto Princesa, Palawan today, 22 November 2022.

U.S. Vice President Harris said this is to increase the concerned agencies’ capacity; counter Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing; enhance their monitoring systems; and upgrade their equipment.

“To the PCG, you are on the frontline of standing up for international rules-based order. Each and every day, as you patrol these waters, you uphold the rules and norms that are vital to the prosperity of the Filipino people and people around the world,” the U.S. Vice President expressed.

“The United States and the broader international community have a profound stake in the future of this region. We are proud to work with you on your mission,” she added.

For his part, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Maritime Elmer Sarmiento thanked the United States for continuously providing capacity-building opportunities for PCG officers and personnel.

“The United States has always been responsive in providing much-needed capacity-building opportunities to the PCG, especially in strengthening the skills of its personnel, particularly in the fields of maritime security, law enforcement, and maritime safety,” he furthered.

“The U.S. Vice President’s visit today is another strong manifestation of the commitment of the United States administration in strengthening cooperation with the Philippines,” the DOTr Undersecretary for Maritime emphasized.

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