President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday commended the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) for its tireless efforts in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, highlighting the agency’s 2.72 million vessel inspections over the past 14 months as a key achievement in ensuring the safety of sea travel.
Speaking during the oath-taking of 29 newly promoted Coast Guard officers at Malacañan Palace, President Marcos emphasized the critical role the PCG plays in protecting both maritime operations and public welfare through rigorous pre-departure checks, vessel safety assessments, emergency preparedness evaluations, and port state control.
From January 2024 to March 2025, the PCG conducted:
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2.72 million vessel inspections
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44,777 seaborne missions
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Patrols covering over 3.1 million square nautical miles
The President also lauded the agency’s swift response to emergencies, noting that the PCG handled more than 2,000 maritime incidents and rescued nearly 4,500 individuals during the same period.
“For decades, the PCG has stood as a vigilant force across our seas—calm in crisis, firm in mission, and unshakable in your dedication to serve,” President Marcos said.
He praised the Coast Guard’s modernization and professionalism, acknowledging the agency’s evolution into a multi-missioned maritime force capable of responding to both routine duties and high-risk situations.
The President cited the PCG’s decisive action during the MT Terra Nova oil spill in Limay, Bataan as a defining moment, showcasing the service’s ability to respond effectively to environmental threats. “You coordinated swiftly, acted decisively, and prevented further devastation to our marine ecosystems. That is what service looks like—anticipating, acting with purpose, and leaving no community behind,” he said.
Reinforcing its environmental stewardship, the PCG also:
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Conducted 17,715 inspections of vessels and facilities
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Carried out 555 shore-based patrols to enforce environmental regulations
In maritime law enforcement, the PCG executed 33,633 sea-marshal operations and apprehended 578 individuals involved in illegal maritime activities.
“These figures are proof that the PCG remains a trusted guardian of peace and justice at sea,” President Marcos concluded.
