How Are Indian and Philippines Coast Guards Strengthening Maritime Cooperation?
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Synopsis
The inaugural meeting between the Indian and Philippine Coast Guards in Manila signifies a pivotal step in enhancing maritime cooperation. This engagement aims to bolster joint initiatives, interoperability, and operational coordination, reflecting a shared commitment to regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Key Takeaways
- Inaugural meeting between ICG and PCG held in Manila.
- Focus on enhancing maritime cooperation and operational coordination.
- Alignment with India's Act East Policy.
- Discussion on maritime search and rescue and law enforcement.
- Commitment to mutual trust and operational synergy.
Manila, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) convened for their inaugural annual bilateral meeting in Manila on Tuesday, adhering to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established on August 22, 2023.
As stated by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), "both parties assessed recent ship visits, professional exchanges, and cooperative activities between Coast Guards, while agreeing to further fortify joint initiatives aimed at boosting interoperability and operational coordination."
This engagement is closely aligned with India’s Act East Policy and regional maritime initiatives such as Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), collectively promoting a safe, secure, and stable maritime environment.
The discussions centered on enhancing collaboration in maritime search and rescue, law enforcement, marine pollution response, and capacity building.
"The meeting was co-chaired by ICG Commander for the Eastern Seaboard, Additional Director General Donny Michael, and the Deputy Commandant for Operations of the PCG, Vice Admiral Edgar L. Ybanez," the MoD noted.
Strengthened cooperation between the ICG and PCG represents a vital aspect of the broader India-Philippines strategic partnership, contributing to peace, stability, and sustainable maritime governance in the Indo-Pacific.
Both Coast Guards reaffirmed their commitment to regular institutional interactions, training programs, exchanges of best practices, and ship visits, emphasizing that these engagements foster mutual trust and operational synergy.
The meeting highlighted the shared determination of India and the Philippines to collaborate in a spirit of friendship and cooperation to ensure regional maritime security, safety, and environmental sustainability.
Importantly, last month, the Philippines' Ambassador to the United States, Jose Manuel del Gallego Romualdez, emphasized the strength of the India-Philippines relationship, identifying New Delhi as "one of Manila’s top partners and friends."
“We view India now as one of our top partners and friends. They have been extremely supportive of the Philippines… We are actually procuring a significant amount of defense equipment like BrahMos and are also collaborating with India on the technology front,” he added.
Point of View
It is clear that this engagement represents a substantial commitment to regional maritime security. Both nations are taking proactive steps to enhance cooperation, which reflects positively on their strategic partnership and contributes to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
NationPress
02/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main purpose of the meeting?
The main purpose of the meeting was to enhance maritime cooperation between the Indian Coast Guard and the Philippine Coast Guard, focusing on interoperability and operational coordination.
When was the Memorandum of Understanding signed?
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on August 22, 2023.
What areas of cooperation were discussed?
The meeting discussed cooperation in maritime search and rescue, law enforcement, marine pollution response, and capacity building.
Who co-chaired the meeting?
The meeting was co-chaired by ICG Commander Additional Director General Donny Michael and PCG Vice Admiral Edgar L. Ybanez.
How does this meeting align with India's policies?
The meeting aligns with India's Act East Policy and regional maritime initiatives aimed at promoting a secure maritime environment.
