Japan emphasized that it will continue cooperation with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to ensure the safe maritime domain of the Philippines.
As part of this commitment, Japan ambassador to the Philippines, Koshikawa Kazuhiko, visited the Philippine Coast Guard Headquarters in Manila on Tuesday (Dec. 7).
Along with PCG Commandant Adm. Leopoldo Laroya, they visited the 44-meter multi-role response vessel (MMRV) BRP Malabrigo.
This is part of the 10 44-meter MRRVs that have undergone equipment and technology transfer from the Official Development Assistance (ODA) or loan and grant aid from Japan that started from 2016 to 2018.
These vessels were designed to help enhance the vigilance and surveillance capacity of PCG with the help of advanced communications monitoring technology.
Koshikawa said that the South China Sea and the entire Indo-Pacific Region should be free and open.
He also added that Japan will continue to strengthen the maritime law enforcement of the Philippines.
Aside from the MRRVs, Japan also delivered 13 high-speed boats. – Report from Naomi Tiburcio/PG – bny
