The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has recognized the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) for its generous efforts to support the ongoing disaster response operations of the national government towards the rehabilitation of the affected families of Typhoon #OdettePH.

PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Leopoldo V Laroya expressed his gratitude to PCGA squadrons across the country that are actively participating in Coast Guard missions before, during, and after the typhoon.

“Our PCGA volunteers lent their rescue assets and even risked their lives to evacuate trapped residents in various regions, specifically in Western Visayas and Northern Mindanao, during the onslaught of Typhoon Odette,” CG Admiral Laroya said.

“As soon as the weather stabilized, they started repacking relief supplies and delivered them to Coast Guard vessels that are deployed to conduct transport missions. They listened to the needs of the affected families by donating, not only food and water, but also construction materials and generator sets,” the Coast Guard Commandant added.

“They continue to remain as our valuable partner in the swift implementation of missions to ultimately serve our 'kababayans' who are in need of assistance for their recovery after the typhoon,” he furthered.

For his part, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur P. Tugade, who is a member of the PCGA Executive Squadron, said he was proud to personally lead numerous oath-taking ceremonies of thousands of PCGA volunteers this year for he was able to witness the ‘heart of service’ among each and every member of the PCG's civilian volunteer arm, especially during this trying time.

“Saludo ako sa mga PCGA volunteers na patuloy na tumutulong sa Coast Guard para mapadali at mapabilis ang relief operation sa mga lugar na nasalanta ng bagyo. Mula sa kaibuturan ng aking puso, maraming salamat sa inyong sakripisyo. Mula sa Pangulo at sa sambayanan, maraming salamat sa inyong serbisyo,” Secretary Tugade expressed.