PCG Commissions Second 97m MRRV from Japan

On June 12, 2022, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu commissioned the second of two (2) 97m-class Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRV) of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the “BRP MELCHORA AQUINO.”

Ambassador Koshikawa commented that “I am confident that this commissioning is a strong testament to further reinforce the close maritime cooperation between Japan and the Philippines.  As maritime nations, our two countries place primary importance in ensuring a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) to promote our national interests.”

In addition, the Ambassador also remarked that “It is our fervent hope that these two 97m class patrol vessels will serve as flagships of the PCG in promoting maritime stability and legitimate economic activities including fishermen’s activities in Philippine seas for years to come.  May they also serve as a symbol of our two nations’ friendship and strategic partnership.”
 
The first 97m class patrol vessel “BRP Teresa Magbanua” was commissioned in May, and has already been dispatched to participate in the Marine Pollution Exercise (MARPOLEX) jointly conducted by the Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan, demonstrating its capability and readiness in addressing oil spill disaster.  The acquisition of these two (2) MRRVs was made possible under the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP) Phase 2, with ODA funding from the Japanese Government through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

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