Rappler
Coast Guard: ‘Disheartening to hear doubts’ about our defense of West PH Sea
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela expressed dismay over doubts cast on the PCG's ability to defend Philippine waters without foreign assistance, stating it is "disheartening" to hear such concerns.
Tarriela affirmed his full support for the PCG's 30,000 personnel and their commitment to their patriotic duty in the West Philippine Sea.
He emphasized the PCG's resolve to continue serving and protecting the country's Exclusive Economic Zone, irrespective of any external assistance.
Senator Robinhood Padilla had previously raised concerns about a US Navy aircraft's presence during a resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal on September 8, suggesting it could escalate tensions.
Tarriela echoed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s position that disputes in the South China Sea should not be framed solely as a competition between powerful nations, as this denies Philippine independence and disregards its legitimate interests.
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The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully completed a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, despite harassment from China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese maritime militia (CMM) vessels.
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Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri announced the Senate's intention to increase the confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine Navy to bolster national defense in the West Philippine Sea.
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The Philippines reported that Chinese Coast Guard vessels "harassed" a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in the West Philippine Sea on Friday.
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The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is requesting a supplemental budget of P600 million for fuel to ensure a sustained presence in the West Philippine Sea.
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