By Katrina Gracia Consebido
President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Wednesday, Oct. 19, assured his commitment to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in its goal in modernizing the agency.
Speaking at the 121st PCG Founding Anniversary in Port Area, Manila, the President pledged that his administration will be supporting them in bolstering their projects and programs for the country.
“As your leader, I assure you that this administration will always be behind you, supportive of your efforts and initiatives to modernize the Philippine Coast Guard, which will redound to the better delivery of service to the nation,” Marcos said.
Marcos highlighted that the PCG’s role is crucial in carrying out their duties in maintaining the peace and order within the territorial waters of the country.
“The PCG is likewise crucial to the government’s law enforcement initiative by ensuring and maintaining peace and order at sea,” he added.
“And the Philippine Coast Guard in the recent past has taken on many new duties. Critical of that, is now you are the front line in the defense of our maritime territory and defense of our economic zones; in defense of our baselines,” he continued.
The Chief Executive also hailed the PCG for being in the front line when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country and being one with the government in preserving the environment.
“Furthermore, when the pandemic came to the Philippines, and we were in need of skilled workers to help- in again, another duty or another mission that was not originally the mission of the Philippine Coast Guard- yet the Philippine Coast Guard rose to the challenge,” he said.
“And you now are also, with the onset of our existential threat to the rest of the globe- of global warming” he added.
Marcos is confident that the PCG will live up to their role in protecting the shores for the benefit of the Filipinos and the future generations, and urged them to continue their dedication and commitment to their duties as ‘guardian of the sea.’
“With the brave men and women of the Philippine Coast Guard, guarding our shores, I am confident that we will be able to steer our nation in a direction towards safer shores and even onwards to a better, brighter, and more prosperous future,” he continued.
“I urge you to continue your dedication and persistence in your duties and responsibilities and move full throttle towards the realization of your vision to be a world class guardian of the sea, committed to save lives, assure safer maritime transportation, ensure cleaner seas and secure maritime jurisdiction,” Marcos said.