PCG to deploy unmanned vessel in Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will deploy an unmanned surveillance ship in Celebes and Sulu Seas to monitor illegal activities in Mindanao.

The Shanaka 93 Class Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) was donated to the PCG by the United Nations’ Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The USV was formally turned over to the PCG during the 123rd anniversary celebration of the UNODC’s global maritime crime program yesterday.

The UNODC, represented by Shanaka Jayesekara as regional program coordinator for maritime crime in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, said the USV is one of their maritime domain awareness initiatives.

Jayesekara said the UNODC-GMCP is pleased to collaborate with the PCG in augmenting monitoring and surveillance capabilities in the Sulu and Celebes Seas.

The PCG is the first coast guard agency in Southeast Asia to deploy a USV as well as witness its capability at sea.

The USV is expected to enhance monitoring of illegal activities in Mindanao.

PCG chief Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan thanked the UNODC for helping secure the country’s maritime domain and spotting vessels involved in illegal activities.