BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702)’s crew will receive an International Maritime Organization (IMO) Letter of Commendation, as approved by the 134th Session of the IMO Council held on July 10, 2025.

The said vessel’s swift action reflects the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)’s strong commitment to pursue President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr.’s vision to strictly adhere to the 10/30 doctrine, an operational readiness standard requiring that deployable response assets must be launched within 10 minutes of receiving orders, while larger vessels must be underway within 30 minutes.

Demonstrating a high level of preparedness, the timely deployment of BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702), along with the exceptional skills of its crew, led to the successful rescue of M/T Terranova crew and the prevention of a catastrophic oil spill during the onslaught of Typhoon Carina in July 2024.

The awarding ceremony will occur on November 24, 2025, during the 34th session of the Assembly at the IMO Headquarters, Albert Embankment, London.