The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) supports Senator Christopher Bong Go proposed Senate Bill No. 2112, filed on 03 May 2023, to modernize and enhance its capabilities to better protect the country's maritime domain.

PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, said SB No. 2112 would help the PCG swiftly acquire state-of-the-art assets and resources for maritime law enforcement, maritime security, maritime safety, maritime search and rescue, and marine environmental protection.

Sen. Go, Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on National Defense, emphasized that the proposed bill will allow the PCG to reduce, if not eradicate, maritime accidents and speed up its response time during search and rescue operations.

Once passed into law, it will also strengthen the PCG's maritime patrol capabilities toward securing the nation's exclusive economic zones (EEZ).

Moreover, SB No. 2112 will enhance Coast Guard capabilities in addressing environmental threats, such as oil spills, that damage the Philippines' rich marine resources.

On the proposed bill, the legislator also highlighted the need to develop PCG's training and capacity-building programs to professionalize its workforce and ensure they are well-trained in conducting Coast Guard operations.

"I believe that the modernization of our Coast Guard is not only crucial for our national security but also for the safety and well-being of our citizens, especially those who rely on our seas and waterways for their livelihood. We must ensure that our PCG is fully equipped and prepared to protect our waters and our people," Sen. Go furthered.