The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) have signed an accord for the security and safety of international ships and ports and joint training initiatives.
In a statement, the PCG said the memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed by PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and Transportation Security Administrator, Undersecretary Crisaldo Nieves, at the National Headquarters of Philippine Coast Guard in Port Area, Manila on Tuesday, October 15.
During the meeting, the PCG chief said that the agreement represented more than a formal arrangement “but a symbol of a shared vision for growth, innovation, and an integrated approach to maritime security.”
Nieves said that the agreement that they signed ensures the safety and security of the country’s maritime domains. “This partnership embodies our collective aspiration to bolster maritime security across our vast archipelago,” he said.
Under the pact, the PCG shall perform “control and compliance measures” prescribed under the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code to secure ships in or intending to call at any Philippine port.
The PCG and OTS also agreed to conduct joint training and capacity-building initiatives.
