PCG: The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has stepped up its coordination and cooperation with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the field of maritime law enforcement as they will conduct a rubber boat exercise from 30 May to 02 June at vicinity waters off Davao as part of the 12th Maritime Law Enforcement Exercise.

A total of 20 PCG personnel assigned at Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM), Special Operations Unit of CGDSEM and crew members of PCG multi-role response vessels from Japan, BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401) and BRP Capones (MRRV- 4404) will participate this year’s rubber boat exercise.

The participants will be assisted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency maritime law enforcement experts of the JCG headed by Commander Akira Kuramoto.

Said personnel will participate in various rubber boat drills to train the personnel in changing course, transferring, high speed manuevering, and different regulations followed in engaging with target vessels.

This activity is a part of the Memorandum of Cooperation between both Coast Guards which aims to promote capacity enhancement of personnel in four areas; maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, aids to navigation and marine environment protection.