In a bid to enhance maritime law enforcement in the waters of Mindanao, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has officially activated the Coast Guard District Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CGDBARMM) located at No. 10 Rajah Tabunaway Boulevard, Cotabato City on 14 December 2020.

This is in compliance with Article XI, Section 7 of the Republic Act 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law which stated that “the PCG shall establish a regional office in the BARMM which shall be organized, maintained, supervised, and utilized for the primary purpose of law enforcement over Coast Guard matters… under the direct operational and administrative control and supervision of the PCG”.

The CGDBARMM, led by District Commander, Captain Christopher M Meniado, governs the center of commerce, trade, and sea lanes of communication in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Cotabato City, and Basilan – except Isabela City which falls under the maritime jurisdiction of the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM).

PCG Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr said the activation of the CGDBARMM shall further intensify the implementation of maritime law enforcement, maritime security, and maritime safety functions in the region for the protection of its people and their resources.

To date, the CGDBARMM is the 15th Coast Guard District across the country and the 6th Coast Guard District in the entire region of Mindanao.