PCG receives vessel, RHIBs from PRC, Grab

A humanitarian vessel of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), two inflatable boats and 100 units of satellite-based Wi-Fi kits were donated to the Philippine Coast Guard on Tuesday.

The MV Amazing Grace, Barracuda Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIB) and STARLINK kits were turned over to PCG officials during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Manila.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and PRC chairman Richard Gordon signed the deed of donation for the Amazing Grace last 30 January.

The United States-built, high-speed craft weighing 1,044 gross tons and 301 net tonnage is intended to enhance the PCG’s capability to provide medical and humanitarian assistance to remote communities, particularly in coastal areas.

The vessel will also strengthen the PCG’s ability to deliver aid and government services to far-flung areas, especially during emergencies, natural disasters and public health crises.

The STARLINK kits from Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) aim to further strengthen the PCG’s ability to maintain continuous communication and provide real-time reports from its vessels deployed at sea and even in the most isolated areas in the country.

The PCG also received two RHIBs from GRAB Philippines Inc. through the effort of the First Lady, Auxiliary Vice Admiral Marie Louise Araneta Marcos.

The RHIBs will help coast guards in search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement and other emergencies in both land and sea.

The donation ceremony was also graced by the First Lady, Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon; DFNN executive chairman Ramon Garcia Jr., regional head of corporate strategy of Grab Philippines, Grace Vera Cruz, Gavan and Gordon.

Gavan expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation for the partnership between government, non-government and private sectors and their support to the PCG’s thrust of protecting the nation’s coastal communities.

“This is very special for us. We recognize the national government support in our quest for a Bagong Pilipinas, where we have to bring public service right at the doorstep of every Filipino,” he said.

Gordon emphasized the humanitarian principles guiding their actions and expressed pride in donating the vessel to the PCG. He shared his hope for the vessel to be used effectively.

For his part, Dizon expressed his sincere appreciation to the private and non-government organizations for providing necessary assistance and their continued support to the PCG.

Cruz, extended her gratitude to the PCG for their tireless service and to First Lady Araneta-Marcos for her presence during the event.

“This donation underscores our dedication to supporting the brave men and women of the PCG in their mission to safeguard our waters and protect lives,” Cruz said.