The Australian government donated more than a dozen very high frequency (VHF) base radios to help improve the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) communication linkages between its assets and stations in Palawan.

The donation is part of Australia’s broader PHP328 million civil maritime cooperation with the Philippines, which includes vessel remediation, aerial drones, postgraduate scholarships, operational training, and annual Law of the Sea courses.

“Australia is proud of our strong cooperation with the PCG. As Strategic Partners, we will continue to listen and respond to the PCG’s needs,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu said.

The Australian Embassy in Manila on Tuesday said this donation aims to bolster the strategic capabilities of PCG Palawan to monitor maritime incidents, respond to emergencies, and coordinate maritime operations, in support of its modernization efforts.

The donation was turned over during a ceremony held at the PCG headquarters in Manila, and was received by PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gavan and newly appointed Commodore Dennis Rem Labay, PCG Palawan district commander.

The Australian government was represented by the Secretary of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Jan Adams and Yu.

Earlier this year, Australia and the Philippines signed the memorandum of understanding on Enhanced Maritime Cooperation to strengthen collaboration on the civil maritime realm. (PNA)