MANILA, 24 April (PIA) -- The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has embarked on a project that will enhance the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) ability to protect the Philippine seas.
The project, calls for the construction of 10 40-meter multi-role response vessels or MRRVs.
"This project is part of government’s program to equip our forces with necessary assets to protect the national marine interest. These 10 new vessels will help the Coast Guard in its functions of maritime law enforcement, search-and-rescue operations, and upholding maritime security within Philippines seas,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya in a statement.
The project is being implemented as an Official Development Assistance (ODA) project, via a tied loan extended by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The loan facility covers P 7,373,700,000.00 out of the total project of P 8,807,700,000.00. The balance will be sourced from the Philippine counterpart of P 1,434,000,000.00.
Under the project terms, the MRRVs will be used by the PCG for the following purposes:
· Primary rescue vessels within the PCG Districts’ areas of responsibility (AOR) when the extent of the disaster is beyond the capability of floating assets deployed within the area
· Assistance in the control of oil pollution and protection of the marine environment
· Enforcement of applicable maritime laws within the designated AOR, particularly relating to illegal fishing and sea patrol
· Service as platform for rapid response during relief operations in the area
· Transport of personnel and logistical support.
The MRRVs will be deployed to various PCG Districts across the country, including Manila, La Union, and Puerto Prinsesa.
The vessels will have a standard cruising speed of 16 knots, and a range of 1,500 nautical miles. (DOTC/RJB/JCP/PIA-NCR)
See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/261429856799/dotc-beefs-up-coast-guard-s-assets#sthash.0kao3EQx.dpuf
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