Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez vowed to accelerate the modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) assets and personnel, echoing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to fortify the nation’s maritime domain and humanitarian capabilities.
Speaking during the PCG’s 2026 New Year’s Call, Secretary Lopez emphasized that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is committed to providing the necessary infrastructure and policy frameworks to ensure the PCG can meet its expanding mission.
Secretary Lopez noted that the PCG’s role has evolved significantly, transitioning from traditional coastal defense to ensuring security at major transport hubs and serving as the country’s primary frontline responders during natural disasters. “The DOTr will support and provide the PCG with the resources and infrastructure, as well as policy measures needed to fulfill your mission,” Secretary Lopez stated. “Nararapat lamang na tulungan namin kayo sa pagtupad ninyo sa inyong mandato (It is only right that we help you fulfill your mandate).”
The call for modernization comes on the heels of a landmark year for the agency. In 2025, the PCG achieved a 100% success rate for its 10-minute rapid response goal to maritime distress calls. Key performance metrics from the previous year include:
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438 successful missions conducted.
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1.2 million individuals safely evacuated during calamities.
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3,660 lives saved through search and rescue operations.
PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan reaffirmed the organization’s dedication, stating that the Coast Guard remains “ready and vigilant” for the Filipino people. “We stand committed with a single purpose: to ensure that every mission we fulfill is a story of every Filipino,” Admiral Gavan said.
In a break from traditional protocol, Secretary Lopez concluded his address by personally saluting the gathered personnel, describing the PCG as a “source of pride and inspiration” for the entire nation. He urged the men and women of the Coast Guard to safeguard the public’s confidence, saying, “I hope and I request this: never ever break that trust.”
The DOTr and PCG are expected to roll out further details regarding specific asset acquisitions and facility upgrades later this quarter.
