Senate Leader Urges Philippine Coast Guard to Train Recruits on Maritime Zones Law

Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino has urged the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to incorporate a course on the Philippine Maritime Zones Act into its training curriculum for new recruits. This initiative, proposed during a radio program on January 22, 2025, aims to enhance the recruits’ comprehension of maritime issues, with a particular focus on the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Tolentino emphasized the necessity of this training, stating that understanding the Maritime Zones Act is crucial for addressing challenges such as foreign vessel intrusions in the region. The Act delineates the boundaries of the Philippines’ maritime jurisdiction, which Tolentino believes should be acknowledged internationally. PCG spokesperson Commodore Algier Ricafrente responded positively to the proposal, highlighting that the addition of 4,000 new recruits will significantly strengthen the PCG’s current workforce of 35,000. These new members are expected to be assigned to various regional offices across the country.