India offers PCG 7 choppers

The Indian government has offered the Philippine Coast Guard at least seven helicopters for disaster rescue and humanitarian work, Malacañang said on Sunday.

After meeting with Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shambhu Kumaran, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the offer is a significant help for the PCG's maritime operations.

"We're trying to build up our capacity, our capabilities in terms of our coast guard… of course, search and rescue is always the primary consideration," the Palace quoted Marcos as saying.

"There is a continuing problem really that we have to deal with, and we have to increase our capabilities," he added.

Marcos said he would discuss the proposal with the PCG and Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, whose department oversees the PCG.

Kumaran revealed that discussions are now ongoing between the Indian government, the PCG, and the Department of Transportation, or DoTr, regarding the provision of seven helicopters for the PCG's maritime search and rescue missions and humanitarian work.

12 sea vessels

The government of Japan, through Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, this week pledged to donate 12 seagoing vessels to the PCG.

Kishida visited Manila on Friday and Saturday to meet with President Marcos and to address a joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The ambassador added that the helicopters India is offering were initially designed for use by India's navy and coast guard. These helicopters can support more extensive security operations, carrying more people and cargo.

"The discussion is going on very well. The Coast Guard is very interested — they've flown the helicopter. I would request your consideration because that would be a very positive (program)," Kumaran told the President.

"So, these (seven helicopters) are really an optimal solution, given the changing requirements for the Philippine Coast Guard to play a more active role and its security," he added.

In September, Ambassador Kumaran said his government was discussing multiple aspects of defense and maritime cooperation with the Philippines. The previous year, the Philippines entered into an agreement with India to acquire a shore-based anti-ship missile system.

The two nations have established a Joint Defense Cooperation Committee and a Joint Defense Industry and Logistics Committee, highlighting their commitment to enhancing cooperation in defense and related industries.