ON August 18, the U.S. government, through the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), donated Php1.9 million ($34,500) worth of equipment to the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) Fleet Maintenance and Repair Group (MRG) Workshop in Sangley Point, Cavite. The donation will enhance the PCG’s ability to maintain and repair vessels.
“This activity is another important step in our capability buildup to provide the necessary equipment for our MRG,” Coast Guard Fleet Commander Rear Admiral Rommel Supangan said during the turnover ceremony. He also welcomed this support as “another meaningful step forward” in the cooperation between the PCG and the U.S. Embassy to promote maritime security.
“INL pledged to continue supporting the MRG as they operationalize their maintenance facility and address vessel sustainment requirements comprehensively across the Coast Guard Fleet. This transfer of essential equipment and backup power supply will enable a broader and more effective equipment repair program,” U.S. Embassy INL Director Kate Riche said.
The PCG’s 400-square-meter Fleet MRG Workshop in Sangley Point was inaugurated in May 2024 as a joint initiative among INL, the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group Philippines, and the PCG to enhance maintenance and repair capability for small boats and systems aboard larger patrol vessels, complementing the MRG facility in the Manila Port Area. The U.S. Department of Defense funded the construction of the Php54-million ($950,000) MRG Workshop in Sangley Point while INL funded its design and outfitting in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard.
INL and other U.S. government agencies are planning additional support for PCG vessel maintenance efforts in the coming year through technical training programs, maintenance and logistic systems planning, and equipment donations for vessel operating stations.| – Kabayannews.net
