The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) supports the International Maritime Defense Exhibition (IMDEX) Asia 2023 and the 8th International Maritime Security Conference (IMSC) held in Singapore from 02 to 05 May 2023.

With the theme, "Safe and Secure Seas – Emerging Stronger as a Maritime Community," over 400 participants from more than 45 countries' Navy, Coast Guard, maritime industries, and agencies gathered to capitalize on the growing Asia Pacific market on vessels, systems, and technologies.

PCG Deputy Commandant for Operations, CG Vice Admiral Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr, represented PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, during the event.

Director of the PCG's Project Management Office, CG Commodore Prudencio Patricio Jr, joined CG Vice Admiral Punzalan.

The PCG participated in several bilateral meetings with the Republic of Singapore Navy Maritime Security Task Force, Australian Border Command, and French Navy, led by Colonel Agustine Lim, Rear Admiral Justin Jones, and Rear Admiral Jean-Mathieu Rey, respectively.

The PCG officials also met with Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Medardo Macaraig, attended the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Show, and participated in the IMSC's first-ever Special Session.

CG Vice Admiral Punzalan Jr was one of the 8th IMSC's Special Session speakers, discussing the PCG's law enforcement challenges and initiatives to address maritime security threats.

Furthermore, maritime practitioners, academics, policymakers, and stakeholders tackled the roles of Coast Guards and Maritime Law Enforcement Agencies and shared their thoughts on how Asia Pacific countries could collaborate and emerge stronger to promote safe and secure seas.

Through IMDEX Asia and the 8th IMSC, the PCG and other stakeholders strengthened its ties and ensured mutual understanding.

They expressed their commitment to supporting similar events allowing the community to better manage the maritime environment.