This was the remark of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr during the oath-taking and donning ceremonies of 43 new members of the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) District Western Visayas held in Iloilo City on 27 January 2021.

"The PCGA has been our force multiplier. I have been saying that the PCGA is our secret weapon and we have proven that many times, especially in this time of pandemic," Admiral Ursabia said.

The Coast Guard Commandant also expressed his appreciation to the PCGA for supporting the timely delivery of essential goods and services during national emergencies, such as the declaration of nationwide community quarantine and strong typhoons that affected thousands of Filipino families last year.

For his part, Commodore Ronald Raymund L Sebastian PCGA assured the Command of their unabating commitment to advance the Coast Guard mandate.

"The Coast Guard Auxiliary District Western Visayas continues to provide full support to all endeavors of the Philippine Coast Guard, as we strive to uphold the tenets of the organization and remain committed to saving lives and serving the nation," Commodore Sebastian PCGA articulated.

Under Republic Act No. 9993 or the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009, the PCGA shall assist the PCG in the promotion of safety of life and property at sea; preservation of the marine environment and its resources; conduct of maritime search and rescue; maintenance of aids to navigation; as well as the performance of humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.