De Lima pushes strengthen PH Coast Guard in new bill

Title Strengthening the PH Coast Guard De Lima's Bill Aims to Modernize Maritime Services

The ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea underscore the importance of strengthening the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Representative Leila de Lima has introduced House Bill 5131, which aims to modernize the PCG through policy and organizational reforms. The proposed bill seeks to repeal the existing PCG Law of 2009 and introduce a comprehensive Revised Philippine Coast Guard Law.

In her statement, De Lima emphasized the crucial role of the PCG in ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, as well as protecting the marine environment within the country's maritime jurisdiction. She noted that over the past decade, emerging maritime threats, increasing international obligations, and rapid developments in the maritime domain have outpaced the capabilities of the PCG, necessitating a comprehensive update to its legal charter.

The proposed reforms aim to modernize the PCG by creating three core functional commands

1. Maritime Safety Services Command
2. Marine Environmental Protection Command
3. Maritime Security Law Enforcement Command

These commands will be supported by appropriate operational and technical units. Furthermore, De Lima's bill seeks to increase personnel capacity and professionalism by aligning salaries, ranks, and benefits with those of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.

To further modernize the PCG, the bill authorizes the development of a comprehensive plan for vessels, aircraft, navigation and communications systems, and maritime monitoring facilities. This will enable the PCG to effectively protect its vast maritime zones, fulfill international obligations, and ensure the safety, security, and sustainability of its seas.

In summary, De Lima's bill aims to strengthen the Philippine Coast Guard by

Repealing the existing law and introducing a comprehensive revised law
Creating three core functional commands with operational and technical support
Increasing personnel capacity and professionalism
Modernizing assets and infrastructure

By strengthening the PCG, the Philippines can position itself as a responsible maritime nation capable of protecting its vast maritime zones, fulfilling international obligations, and ensuring the safety, security, and sustainability of its seas.

Conclusion

The proposed bill represents an important step towards modernizing the Philippine Coast Guard and enhancing its capabilities to protect the country's maritime domain. As tensions in the West Philippine Sea continue to rise, it is crucial that the PCG is equipped with the necessary resources and reforms to effectively carry out its mandate.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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