MANILA — The Australian government has donated PHP34 million worth of drones and training to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to strengthen maritime security and operations.
During a handover ceremony in Mariveles, Bataan on April 8, 2025, Australian Ambassador HK Yu presented 20 aerial drones to PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan. This donation includes four days of training for 30 PCG personnel from the Aviation Command’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Squadron, provided by Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
“This support enhances our ability to safeguard our maritime rights and responsibilities, promoting peace and prosperity for our nation and all lawful maritime users,” said Gavan.
This initiative is part of Australia’s civil maritime cooperation with the Philippines, which covers vessel remediation, training, marine protection, and Law of the Sea courses. Ambassador Yu highlighted that the donation exemplifies the growing Philippines-Australia Strategic Partnership, which will see civil maritime cooperation funding doubled to PHP649 million for 2025-2029.
The two countries have also signed a memorandum of understanding to foster enhanced maritime collaboration, promoting a peaceful and law-abiding region.
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