The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has received the NEWLY CONSTRUCTED SPECIALIZED EDUCATION AND TECHNICAL BUILDING donated by the U.S. government today, 11 September 2023.

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and PCG Deputy Commandant for Administration, CG Vice Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, presided over the ceremonial turnover and blessing ceremony of the said infrastructure located at the PCG's Fleet Training Center of Excellence in Balagtas, Bulacan.

The ₱250-million two-story building covers 3,900 square meters and includes classrooms, laboratories, equipment rooms, dining facilities, a galley, offices, a technical library, and workstations.

CG Vice Admiral Gavan said the donation will be used to educate, develop, and enhance the knowledge and skills of Coast Guard personnel as it will cater to the training needs of Fleet Education Training Development Doctrine Institute (FETDDI) students undergoing various shipboard career and competency courses.

"The building serves as an important instrument for the enhancement of the capabilities of our sailors, which will fortify the PCG's mandate," he expressed.

"Let this building remind us that from adversity, we can build strength; from tragedy, we can find hope; and from a shared vision, we can create a brighter future," CG Vice Admiral Gavan furthered.

For her part, Ambassador Carlson said the building marks a significant advancement in the PCG's ability to operate and maintain its assets that preserve maritime safety, protect the marine environment, enforce maritime laws and defend Philippine sovereign rights, including in the West Philippine Sea.

The donation is part of the U.S. government's ongoing commitment to assist the PCG in enhancing its capabilities and addressing maritime challenges.

It was made possible through the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, specifically the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), the United States Department of Defense (DOD), the Joint United States Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG), and the U.S. Coast Guard.