PCG receives new plane, trains pilots for WPS missions

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced that its new Piper PA-31 Navajo aircraft will be used for Maritime Domain Awareness flights over the West Philippine Sea.

Four PCG pilots have completed training to operate the new aircraft, tail number PCG-221, enhancing the agency's mission readiness amid rising tensions in the WPS.

The Coast Guard stated that this addition improves its capability for conducting sovereignty patrols and rapid response operations across maritime zones.

PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab noted a recent drone exercise to assess their capabilities in aerial surveillance, coastal monitoring, and emergency response.

The PCG also launched the iCARE program and CGSISARR system, which aim to improve maritime safety, security, law enforcement, and community service through technology-based reporting.

During the launch, Coast Guard officers discussed mission performance and inter-agency collaboration with briefings from government bodies on strategic maritime directions.