18-5-2024 (MANILA) The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is poised to bolster its maritime security capabilities with a substantial investment in five new patrol vessels from Japan, valued at a staggering P23.85 billion, solidifying the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial waters.
In a ceremonial display of bilateral cooperation, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya presided over the signing and exchange of diplomatic notes for the official development assistance (ODA) loan on Tuesday. This loan marks the Third Phase of the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP), a joint endeavor aimed at enhancing the Philippines’ maritime safety prowess.
“This momentous occasion signifies not only the deepening of bilateral ties between the Philippines and Japan but also underscores our unwavering commitment to enhancing our maritime safety capabilities for the benefit of our nation and the broader maritime community,” Manalo remarked, underscoring the strategic significance of the acquisition.
The ambitious program encompasses the procurement of five formidable 97-meter offshore patrol-capable Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRV), designed to bolster the PCG’s maritime surveillance and response capabilities. Moreover, the project entails the development of essential support facilities to ensure the vessels’ operational readiness.
According to PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela, in an interview with “Storycon” on One News, the newly acquired vessels are expected to be delivered by 2027 and will be on par with the largest ships currently in the PCG fleet, underscoring the nation’s commitment to maritime dominance.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by esteemed officials from the Department of Finance, the Department of Transportation, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, further solidifying the bilateral partnership between the two nations. Japan has long been the Philippines’ top bilateral Official Development Assistance (ODA) partner, underscoring the depth of their strategic alliance.
