MANILA — Amid escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is actively seeking support from Australia to bolster its maritime capabilities. The PCG is eyeing the acquisition of two patrol vessels from Australia’s global shipbuilder and defense prime contractor.
The Guardian-class 39.5-meter patrol boat, manufactured by Austal, has piqued the interest of the PCG. This vessel, renowned for its effectiveness in maritime operations, is particularly attractive to the Philippine government due to Austal’s shipyard in Balamban, Cebu.
Australia’s provision of such patrol ships to small South Pacific Ocean countries under its Pacific Maritime Security Program underscores its commitment to enhancing regional maritime security. While these patrol boats are initially armed with light weapons, they possess the capability for further upgrades, including medium-caliber guns like 25/30 mm chain guns and 12.7 mm heavy machine guns.
The acquisition of the Guardian-class patrol boats by the PCG may be facilitated through various means, including outright purchase, official development assistance grants, or loans from Australia.
This initiative supplements the Philippine government’s broader modernization efforts aimed at fortifying its maritime defense capabilities. It is separate from the procurement of three new ships funded under the 2024 national budget, specifically designated for defending the West Philippine Sea.
Furthermore, the realignment of funds from the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education to intelligence and security agencies underscores the government’s commitment to addressing escalating threats in the WPS. Lawmakers advocate for increased allocations to the PCG, recognizing its pivotal role in safeguarding the country’s waters.
The PCG’s journey towards modernization has been marked by collaboration with various allies, including Japan, France, and the United States. These partnerships have significantly contributed to expanding the PCG’s fleet and enhancing its maritime capabilities.
As tensions persist in the WPS, the Philippines continues to seek strategic alliances and technological advancements to safeguard its territorial integrity and maritime interests.
(el Amigo/MNM)
