PCG, NCWC, BFAR partner to boost marine environment monitoring in PH

By Katrina Gracia Consebido

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), National Coast Watch Center (NCWC), and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) collaborated to boost marine environment monitoring in the country.

The three agencies signed the memorandum of agreement on the Integrated Marine Environment Monitoring System Phase II Project that aims to “establish, operate, regulate, and maintain all vessel traffic and monitoring systems nationwide, both inland waters or at open sea within the country’s jurisdiction.”

PCG Commandant Coast Guard (CG) Admiral Artemio Abu said PCG will monitor and inspect all suspected persons and vessels navigating the Philippine waters, including offshore platforms and oil rigs.

Abu said PCG will also enforce all applicable national and international maritime security laws and regulations, including port state control.

Meanwhile, NCWC Director CG Rear Admiral Roy Echeverria said the Center will develop and maintain effective communications and information systems to improve inter-agency maritime security coordination. 

Echeverria said the agency will also integrate maritime surveillance and response operations. – gb