Japan donates equipment to Coast Guard

MANILA, Philippines – The Japanese government will turn over tomorrow several systems of communications equipment to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) as part of its P244 million (approximately 609 million yen) grant assistance.

The equipment will help improve and enhance PCG’s communications systems and are expected to facilitate search and rescue as well as counter-terrorism operations.

Japanese Ambassador Makoto Katsura and Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo of the PCG will lead the ceremonial turnover of the equipment under the Project for Enhancement of Communications System for Maritime Safety and Security at the Coast Guard Base in Taguig City.

Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza will also attend the ceremony.

The equipment to be turned over include Satellite Communications System for 11 stations nationwide that will connect the PCG headquarters and its district offices, a VHF/HF radio system for 24 stations under the Manila, Cebu and Zamboanga district offices, a microwave communications system for six Metro Manila stations, and transmitting and receiving equipment for the Manila Coast station.

“This grant reaffirms Japan’s commitment to support the Philippine government’s efforts in disaster prevention and management as well as maritime safety and security. With the acquisition of new equipment and systems, the project is expected to bring about substantial improvements in information accuracy,” the Japanese embassy said. – Pia Lee-Brago