Vietnamese Coast Guard ship arrives for joint exercises

A Vietnamese Coast Guard (VCG) patrol ship, CSB 8002, is in Manila for a five-day port call and maritime exercises with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) from August 5 to August 9.

The joint activities, which include search and rescue drills, fire and explosion prevention training, and a passing exercise in Manila Bay, aim to enhance interoperability and operational readiness.

The VCG delegation toured the PCG's National Coast Watch Center and Marine Science Investigation Force Laboratory, and boarded the BRP Gabriela Silang.

Colonel Hoang stated the visit promotes enhanced efficiency of information sharing and coordination in maritime law enforcement in accordance with international law.

The Vietnamese Defense Ministry highlighted the visit's profound political significance for regional peace and stability.

Additionally, the VCG is monitoring for potential oil spills near sunken vessels in Bataan, despite marine environmental protection not being their primary function.

This initiative follows a January 2024 memorandum of understanding establishing a joint Coast Guard committee and a hotline.