HIS EXCELLENCY LEANDRO MENDOZA
Secretary of Transportation and Communications
THE HONORABLE ADMIRAL WILFREDO TAMAYO
Philippine Coast Guard
DISTINGUISHED GUESTS, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
Good afternoon.
I am honored to join you all today for the turnover of several systems of equipment under the Japanese grant aid Project for Enhancement of Communications System for Maritime Safety and Security to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Since Japan and the Philippines are both maritime nations with long coastlines, many islands, and vast territorial waters, we are engaged in a number of common issues that allow our two countries to share knowledge and experience in maritime and ocean affairs. I am glad to note that the partnership between Japan Coast Guard and the Philippine Coast Guard has been strengthened in recent years to include collaborations in search and rescue operations, marine pollution prevention, maritime law enforcement, and coast guard training and education – all ultimately directed to ensuring maritime safety and security.
Just last February, the two Coast Guards participated in joint training exercises against transnational maritime crimes, piracy and armed robbery in ships on board the JCG ship Ryukyu here in Manila. As is well known, the Somali situation is a big concern in the seafaring industry and it is best to be well-prepared to handle such situations.
The equipment that we are turning over today will further advance PCG's capabilities to handle similar situations by effectively improving its communication system, facilitating the delivery of vital information required for immediate and coordinated search and rescue as well as counter-terrorism operations. Recent events have also brought to the fore the importance of having stable, sufficient and dedicated communication links that can aid in disaster preparedness. Effectively utilized, these equipments will enable the authorities and local residents to improve lifesaving rate and mitigate property loss whenever necessary. Thus, we hope to see this grant aid ultimately translated to the improved lives of as many Filipino people as possible.
In closing, I would like to reaffirm the commitment of the Government of Japan to assist the Philippines in its nation building efforts. I would also like to express my Government's high appreciation for the Philippine Government's unwavering stance in promoting Japan-Philippines relations, as we jointly pursue a comprehensive partnership between our two countries.
Maraming salamat po at mabuhay !
Embassy of Japan in the Philippines