THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has inaugurated its new and upgraded Coast Guard Station Kalayaan Island Group in Pag-asa Island today, Friday, Dec. 1.
The newly inaugurated three-story Coast Guard Station Kalayaan building will have advanced maritime domain awareness technology such as radar, automatic identification, satellite communication, coastal cameras, and vessel traffic management.
PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan, said these state-of-the-art systems will significantly enhance the PCG’s capability to monitor the movements of foreign maritime forces, as well as public vessels and aircraft.
They will also support international shipping by effectively monitoring distressed vessels and providing guidance to passing merchant vessels in the vicinity waters.
During his speech, National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año emphasized the multifaceted approach of China, which includes information operations aimed at creating divisions within the nation.
He stressed the importance of countering this strategy holistically involving all sectors.
Secretary Año also recognized and commended the Philippine Coast Guard for their exceptional dedication to patrolling the waters, risking their safety, and sacrificing personal comfort.
Also present during the inauguration were Presidential Adviser on the West Philippine Sea Andres Centino, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Maritime Elmer Sarmiento, Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Commander Vice Admiral Abeth Carlos, and other members of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTFWPS).
In December 2021, the Coast Guard Station Kalayaan Island Group was entirely damaged by Super Typhoon Odette, leaving only the Philippine flag standing where the structure was once situated.
The PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) immediately provided construction materials and other necessities to ensure Coast Guardians could continue delivering public service to Pag-asa Island residents while working on rebuilding the station.
