he Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is pushing for its cadets to be trained under its US counterpart, which it said will help the agency work toward ensuring maritime safety and marine environmental protection. The PCG made the request at the 2010 National Conference of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary in Arizona, which was held from August 22 to 29. Five other countries, including the US, participated in the event. PCG commandant Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo discussed the possibility of training opportunities for officers and enlisted personnel of the PCG with US Coast Guard (USCG) commandant Admiral Robert Papp. Tamayo, himself a graduate of the USCG Academy, said the last time a Filipino graduated from the Academy was in 1997. Rear Admiral Joseph Castillo, commander of the 11th USCG District and Rear Admiral Kevin Cook, USCG Director of Prevention Policy, said they will bring the Philippines’ request to the attention of the USCG International Affairs.
In the same conference, PCG Auxiliary national director Vice Admiral Higinio Mendoza Jr. said the main challenge confronting Philippine maritime agencies is ensuring the safety of fishing boats and fishing communities around the country. The countries that participated in the conference also agreed to share information and exchange training opportunities for its members, with the goal of pursuing maritime safety activities in their respective countries.
They also vowed to work for closer cooperation to support the maritime safety enforcement and marine environmental protection. The conference is an annual event attended by delegates from different countries, sponsored by the USCGA. The three-day event focused on such themes as recreational safety, rescue, community relations and public affairs activities. Coast Guard auxiliaries in various countries are maritime volunteers helping the regular Coast Guards monitor safety at sea.—JMA/JV
