PCG: The Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) has recently deployed a total of 44 PCG aluminum boats last 11 April 2014 in efforts of strengthening its force in saving lives and properties at sea, protection of the marine environment, security of the maritime transportation and enforcement of maritime rules and regulation in its jurisdiction.

During the Send-off Ceremony conducted at the back of the old PPA building in Sta. Clara Port, Batangas City, CAPT GREGORIO I ADEL JR PCG (DSC), Deputy Commander of Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog emphasized the importance of said boats in accomplishing their tasks.

"Accomplishing all the tasks assigned to us is an immense struggle considering the lack of modern sea assets coupled with a minimal personnel strength," he stated, adding that a change will soon be expected in the conduct of coastal patrol and enforcing all applicable laws.

CAPT ADEL PCG represented the Acting District Commander, COMMO AARON A RECONQUISTA PCG at the said ceremony.

The 44 aluminum boats were distributed to the six Coast Guard stations under the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog for further deployment to their respective sub-stations that are geographically situated in the different coastal cities and municipalities in Region VI-A and part of Region IV-B.

This includes CGS Batangas which received 13 units, CGS Lucena in Quezon province with 9 units, CGS Puerto Real in Quezon province with 3 units, CGS Romblon with 7 units, CGS Calapan in Oriental Mindoro with 6 units and CGS Mamburao in Occidental Mindoro with 4 units.

CAPT ADEL PCG likewise said that by the acquisition of these aluminum boats, with the support of the Coast Guard hierarchy under the DOTC, CGDSTL's response and readiness will be at its best.

"The vast area of responsibility that we cover will now be supplemented with additional and brand new floating assets that we can depend on as the success of the Philippine Coast Guard is shaped by efficient and effective operations at sea. Regular patrols of the these aluminum boats in our maritime jurisdiction will surely deter unscrupulous groups of individuals to venture on illegal fishing activity, smuggling, human trafficking and other destructive means to the marine environment," he concluded.