MANILA — Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela denounced what he described as “misleading and inflammatory remarks” made by Cavite Rep. Kiko Barzaga in a circulating video, saying the lawmaker’s statements distort the PCG’s mandate and discredit its personnel.

“I am compelled to respond to the misleading and inflammatory remarks made by Cong. Kiko Barzaga in a circulating video, which grossly misrepresent the Philippine Coast Guard’s mandate, operations, and the very essence of our service to the Filipino people,” Tarriela said in a statement.

He said Barzaga’s remarks “disrespect the brave men and women of the PCG who risk their lives daily to safeguard our sovereignty and sovereign rights, ensure maritime safety, and uphold the rule of law.”

Barzaga earlier claimed that the PCG’s operations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) could “cause World War III” and have “nothing to do with the lives of the Filipino people.” Tarriela called the statement “alarmist, inaccurate, and deeply irresponsible.”

“The WPS is not an abstract geopolitical issue—it is part of our national patrimony. It encompasses vital fishing grounds, trade routes, and marine resources that sustain millions of Filipino families. The PCG’s presence there is not an act of provocation. PCG’s absence would be a blatant dereliction of duty,” he said.

Tarriela said the Coast Guard’s patrols in the WPS help prevent the normalization of China’s illegal activities and protect Filipino fishermen from harassment.

He also rejected Barzaga’s allegations that the PCG is a “corrupt organization” that gives “high ranks” to political figures, calling them “factually wrong and legally unfounded.”

“Republic Act No. 9993, or the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009, clearly defines our organizational structure and the role of the PCG Auxiliary—a civilian volunteer under the direct supervision of the PCG Commandant,” he said. “The honorary ranks they receive are symbolic of recognition, not authority.”

Tarriela further clarified that the Coast Guard is not part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, countering Barzaga’s claim that “the Philippines has no future with the PCG holding power in the military.”

“The PCG is not part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. We are an armed and uniformed service, but not a military organization. We are attached to the Department of Transportation,” he said.

He said Barzaga’s call to abolish the PCG and his claim that it is a “waste of government funds” were “reckless and deeply insulting” to the 36,000 Coast Guard personnel who serve the country “with honor and courage.”

“Our men and women operate in the harshest conditions—rescuing those in distress at sea, enforcing maritime laws, protecting our environment, and standing firm against coercion in the WPS,” Tarriela said. “To trivialize their service as wasteful betrays not only a lack of understanding but also a lack of empathy.”

Tarriela said the PCG remains committed to its mandate “with professionalism, integrity, and loyalty to the Filipino people.”

“We will not be distracted by disinformation or political grandstanding,” he said. “I respectfully urge Cong. Barzaga to retract his statements and recommend that he consult with a doctor or a lawyer for a clearer understanding of the Philippine Coast Guard.”