A study by the University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP CIDS) highlighted the crucial role of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in protecting national sovereignty and marine ecosystems in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Titled “Stewardship in the West Philippine Sea,” the research written by Rodrigo Angelo Ong from the UP CIDS Conservation and Biodiversity Program details the PCG’s mandates in maritime law enforcement, safety, security, and environmental protection.
It found that the coast guard’s Maritime Environmental Protection Command (MEPCOM) plays a key role in environmental protection, maritime law enforcement, and managing marine biodiversity, especially under the new Philippine Maritime Zones Act.
The research underscores the PCG’s collaboration with various agencies to combat illegal fishing, respond to environmental threats, and promote sustainable reef tourism, which significantly contributes to the economy.
It calls for a multi-sectoral approach to sustainable ecotourism and stresses the need to enhance the PCG’s resources and coordination capabilities.
The study likewise supports House Bill 10841, which aims to strengthen the PCG through improved service commands and the continued operation of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, ensuring the agency is well-equipped to safeguard the country’s maritime domain.
“Its roles in investigative function may also augment the roles of the Maritime Security Law Enforcement Command due to the passage of the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, wherein sovereign and EEZ (exclusive economic zone) territories identified must be secured and the archipelagic sea lanes managed and controlled,” the study read.
