The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has expressed its gratitude for the outpouring of support and donations from civil society for its troops deployed in the West Philippine Sea. The generosity of non-profit organizations and private stakeholders who continue to offer gifts, essential goods, clothes, and medicine to the coast guard personnel has overwhelmed the PCG.
Rear Admiral Armando Balilo, the PCG spokesman, stated that Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan conveyed his appreciation on behalf of the men and women of the organization. He also extended his gratitude to the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) members who constantly assist Coast Guard troops in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“Rest assured that we will swiftly transport their gifts to Palawan so our Coast Guard troops can receive them before Christmas,” assured Balilo on Friday.
In addition to the support from civil society, Gavan announced that the PCG will be escorting civilian ships participating in the civilian-led Christmas convoy to the WPS. The PCG is actively preparing for the event scheduled for December 10, which will involve 40 civilian vessels.
Gavan directed the Coast Guard District Palawan to ensure the safety and security of at least 40 boats participating in the three-day Christmas caravan to various Philippine-held areas in the WPS. The convoy will travel to Patag Island and Lawak Island, where they will personally deliver gifts for the troops and residents.
“As early as now, we are preparing our security personnel and positioning our vessels to uphold maritime security and safety during the three-day humanitarian initiative,” emphasized Gavan.
Gavan further expressed his hopes that as fellow Filipinos step foot on Pag-asa Island, this experience will ignite the spirit of patriotism and inspire them to stand with the PCG in safeguarding the country’s sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zones.
The Philippines currently occupies nine other maritime features, collectively known as the Kalayaan Island Group, in the West Philippine Sea. The Christmas convoy serves as a show of opposition to China’s assertion of sovereignty over the South China Sea, including the western section of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
The PCG’s overwhelming support from civil society and the preparations for the Christmas convoy not only demonstrate the generosity and unity of the Filipino people but also highlight the importance of safeguarding the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. Through these initiatives, the PCG aims to inspire patriotism and raise awareness of the ongoing territorial disputes in the region.
Source: The Manila Times
