Japan Turns Over Two 12m Class High-Speed Boats to the Philippine Coast Guard

On February 27^th, Ambassador Koji Haneda attended the ceremony for the turnover of two 12m class high-speed boats to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Present at the ceremony was Admiral Elson E. Hermogino, PCG Commandant, and other officials.
 
The two 12m class high-speed boats are part of the 13 high-speed boats package, which were provided upon the requested of President Duterte. These high-speed boats are equipped with three (3) 300 horsepower engines and can travel at a maximum speed of 50 knots or 92 kilometers per hour.
 
In his speech, Ambassador Haneda stated that “I trust that our strong cooperation will remain a steady force that will propel maritime security forward in the entire Philippines.”  Referring to Japan’s long time cooperation with the PCG, he also mentioned that “In fact, I had the privilege to attend the very first bilateral conference between the two coast guards in 1982 when I was first posted here in the Philippines as a young diplomat.”  PCG Commandant Admiral Hermogino expressed his gratitude, stating that Japan has been the number one benefactor for the PCG and that he is proud of the PCG’s partnership with Japan.