Japan Provides 3 More High-Speed Boats to Philippines

29 Agustus 2018

Speed boats from Japan to PCG (photo : Japan Embassy)

The Japanese government has turned over three 7-meter class high-speed boats to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) during the commissioning of BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV 4411) and BRP Bagacay (MRRV 4410) at the Headquarters of the Philippine Coast Guard(PCG) in Manila on August 23.

The ceremony was attended by Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda, Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea, and PCG Commandant Elson E. Hermogino.

“The three 7m high-speed boats are the 8th, 9th and 10th of the thirteen high-speed boats provided under Japan’s grant aid worth 600 million yen (270 million peso),” the Japanese Embassy in Manila said.

BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV 4411) and BRP Bagacay (MRRV 4410) are the final two of ten ordered Parola-class 44-meter multi-role response vessels from Japan built by Japan Marine United.

The vessels were acquired through the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP) for PCG Phase 1 funded mainly through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) official development assistance (ODA) loan.

The contract with Japan Marine United was awarded in April 2015. The first Parola-class MRRV, BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401) was commissioned in October 2016.

“The vessels and boats will enhance PCG’s capabilities for law enforcement, help in the prevention of maritime accident and in the conduct of quick rescue operation, and contribute to the overall improvement of maritime safety in the Philippines. The provision of these vessels and boats is expected to further strengthen strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines,” the Japanese Embassy said.

(Mintfo)