The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) targets to recruit 5,500 officers and personnel in 2021, according to PCG Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr during the signing ceremony of the contract of lease with the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM) Corporation on the PCG's continuing utilization of the 440,000-square meter facility in Bagac, Bataan that has been one of the major Coast Guard Regional Training Centers since 2014.

"We need to train 4,000 strong, while the Bureau of Customs is asking for additional 1,500 Coast Guard personnel to augment their operations this year. Our challenge is the availability of sufficient facilities to train them. Hence, having PSALM that strongly supports our education and training is indeed an answered prayer," Admiral Ursabia said.

For her part, PSALM President and CEO, Atty. Irene Joy Besido - Garcia expressed her gratitude to the men and women of the Coast Guard who have been major players in the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are honored to be your partners and to be able to support the PCG in the pursuit of its mandate. We thank you for all that you have done for the Filipino people and the country. Know that PSALM is always open to assist the Coast Guard in any way we can," Atty. Besido - Garcia conveyed.

Moreover, the Coast Guard Commandant shared the PCG needs the support and assistance of other government agencies and local government units in acquiring additional training facilities not only in Luzon, but also in Visayas and Mindanao.

“We need the help of other agencies to meet the demands for the Coast Guard service. We need to produce professional Coast Guardians so they may be of service to the Motherland," the Coast Guard Admiral expressed.

"We are truly thankful to God Almighty for using PSALM to help us achieve our manpower needs this year. We believe more answered prayers are coming,” Admiral Ursabia concluded.