MANILA, Philippines — Senator Win Gatchalian is calling for sweeping reforms and modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to bolster its capabilities amid escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).  

Gatchalian has filed the proposed Revised Philippine Coast Guard Law, which seeks to address operational and administrative gaps within the agency. 

This measure, he said, would reorganize the PCG, strengthen its capabilities, and improve the welfare of its personnel in the face of continued incursions by the Chinese Coast Guard in Philippine waters.  

“When the PCG transitioned from military to civilian administration under the Department of Transportation, no measures were put in place to secure the rights, welfare, and morale of the people working in the agency,” Gatchalian said.

“As a result, the very people tasked to protect our waters are often left to fend for themselves.”  

The senator noted that the revision would send a clear message of support for the Coast Guard and the country’s sovereignty.  

Aside from the organizational reforms, Gatchalian has filed Senate Bill 2516, which proposes a comprehensive modernization program for the PCG. The bill aims to enhance the agency’s assets and facilities, improve its capabilities, and ensure the effective implementation of its mandate under Republic Act 9993, or the Philippine Coast Guard Law.  

The modernization program includes the creation of a PCG Modernization Trust Fund, with an initial appropriation of P1 billion to jumpstart its implementation.  

“We need to strengthen the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard because they are our frontline defenders against environmental threats, illegal activities, and incursions that could endanger our territory and security,” Gatchalian said.  

The senator’s proposals come as the PCG continues to grapple with challenges in enforcing maritime laws and protecting the country’s waters amid geopolitical tensions with China.

The 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling recognized the Philippines’ claims in the disputed maritime area but China refused to acknowledge the ruling, enhancing its military presence in the area for over eight years and harrassing Filipino fishermen in the area.