MANILA — Senator Win Gatchalian has expressed full support for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and is pushing to increase the daily subsistence allowance of its personnel amid continuing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

During a recent Senate budget hearing on the PCG’s proposed 2026 budget, Gatchalian noted that Coast Guard personnel currently receive only ₱150 per day, significantly lower than the ₱350 provided to other uniformed services.

He said improving the PCG’s compensation and operational support is crucial to maintaining the morale of its members, who continue to face harassment and challenges while asserting the country’s sovereignty in the contested waters.

“Kahit na challenging ang situation, ang importante ay ma-sustain natin ang high morale ng ating mga kasamahan sa Coast Guard,” Gatchalian said.

The senator also commended the PCG for its continued efforts to safeguard Philippine waters.

“Let me express my appreciation, commendation, and full support to the PCG. Whenever you patrol the West Philippine Sea, not only do you risk your life, but you also assert our sovereignty,” he said.

Gatchalian added that the Coast Guard’s mission has regional implications, noting that developments in the West Philippine Sea affect not only the Philippines but also neighboring countries.

“Ang trabaho ng PCG is not only for the Philippines but also for ASEAN. Anything that happens in the West Philippine Sea affects the entire region, even North Asia,” he said.