Stronger seas: Japan Coast Guard equips PCG with critical skills

From 10-21 February 2025, the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) provided capacity-building assistance to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) under Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) program.

A Mobile Cooperation Team (MCT) from the JCG was deployed to train PCG personnel, focusing on key investigative techniques such as crime scene photography and arrest procedures. The training targeted both investigators and leadership candidates, equipping them with skills directly applicable to field operations.

The JCG has expressed its commitment to further strengthening its collaboration with the PCG to enhance maritime security capabilities.

Established in 1948 as the Maritime Safety Agency, the JCG is responsible for protecting Japan’s coastline under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism.

Renamed in 2000, the organization has approximately 13,700 personnel. Guided by its motto, Righteous Benevolence, the JCG continues to support regional maritime security initiatives, including capacity-building efforts with international partners like the PCG.