New PCG ship repair facility boosts maritime security

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): New PCG ship repair facility boosts maritime security (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

NEW FACILITY. Officials of the Philippine Coast Guard and the US Embassy in the Philippines cut the ribbon for the newly constructed Maintenance and Repair Group Workshop Facility in Sangley Point, Cavite on Thursday (May 9, 2024). PCG Deputy Commandant for Administration, Vice Admiral Allan Victor Dela Vega, said Friday (May 10, 2024) that the new facility would be used in repairing ships and small floating assets to ensure the country's ability to safeguard its maritime territory. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) newly constructed maintenance and repair facility in Cavite province will enhance the country’s ability to safeguard its maritime territory, an official said Friday.

PCG Deputy Commandant for Administration, Vice Admiral Allan Victor Dela Vega, said the facility would enhance the capabilities of the Maritime Safety Services Command headquarters in Cavite Bouy Base, Sangley Point.

“We will make full use of this workshop facility and employ the highest standards of maintenance practices to ensure the continued reliability and readiness of our ships and small boats,” he said in a news release.

Dela Vega thanked the United States government for the facility and emphasized its importance in the two nations’ bilateral relations.

“This invaluable contribution is a significant milestone in our partnership, and will undoubtedly enhance our capabilities in ship and small boat repair and maintenance,” he said.

Robert Ewing, the chief of mission for the US Embassy in the Philippines, said the facility would ensure the continued operation of the country’s maritime assets.

“The most important outcome of this facility is more persistent and reliable vessel operations out at sea, countering illegal fishing, strengthening maritime domain awareness, and addressing unlawful activities from aggressive foreign actors,” he said.

He assured that there would be many more “upcoming opportunities” for partnership between the two countries.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224502