MANILA, Philippines (01 August 2019). - The two Philippine Coast Guard vessels, BRP Malabrigo and BRP Capones are underway to Batanes to transport relief goods and medicines.

Onboard the vessels are relief goods from DSWD and PCGA including rice, canned goods, milk, blankets, folding beds, and tents.  Likewise, PCG personnel who will augment in the medical activities and relief operations are onboard the vessels. 

PCG Commandant Admiral Elson Hermogino said that after the conduct of relief mission, the vessels will be patrolling the waters off Batanes as part of our measures in protecting the sovereignty of the Philippines and will conduct law enforcement operations.

President Rodrigo Duterte, after conducting aerial inspection of Batanes, just recently directed the PCG to patrol the Batanes Island to ensure they would remain ours. 

Meanwhile, the PCG Islander flew again to Itbayat, Batanes this early morning to transport the relief goods and working personnel for the immediate needs of our affected citizens in Batanes.