Tulfo seeks stronger PCG manpower

 MANILA, Philippines — As chair of the Senate committee on public services and rear admiral of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Executive Squadron, Sen. Raffy Tulfo continues to push for the passage of Senate Bill 2116, or the “Revised Philippine Coast Guard Law.”

In his sponsorship speech in the Senate last May 6, Tulfo said SB 2116 aims to strengthen the manpower of the PCG by providing the institution with the capability to hire more personnel, enabling it to more effectively carry out its duties in maritime safety services, environmental protection and security law enforcement.

“This is the very reason why I am here today to sponsor the Revised Philippine Coast Guard Law. While the PCG is the oldest coast guard in Southeast Asia at 125 years old, there remains critical gaps in their governing law that we aim to address through this landmark measure,” he added.

In addition, the senator emphasized that one of the primary objectives of the proposed measure is to finally address the significant gap or disparity in salaries and benefits received by PCG personnel and officers compared to their counterparts in the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police.

Tulfo said that once SB 2116 is enacted into law, it will expand the powers of the PCG in areas such as the removal of shipwrecks, enforcement of anti-terrorism efforts in Philippine waters, recommending assistance and support from the AFP when necessary, and most importantly, allowing the PCG to enter into international agreements.

Tulfo said the passage of SB 2116 is critical to provide the PCG with access to acquiring assets equipped with advanced technology, ensuring that the country keeps pace with current demands in maritime security and marine environmental protection.