SENATOR Imee Marcos has filed a measure to establish the Philippine Coast Guard Academy (PCGA) and allocate funds for its operations.

In her Senate Bill 1831, also known as the Philippine Coast Guard Academy Act, Marcos highlighted that as a maritime nation, the Philippines relies heavily on maritime trade for socio-economic development. She added that securing these vital maritime routes is key to achieving national unity by connecting cultural values and social norms across the country.

Marcos stressed that to effectively uphold maritime security, the Philippine Coast Guard must continuously enhance its assets and operational capabilities, while ensuring that its primary asset—its manpower—is adequately trained and equipped.

The proposed academy aims to ensure that Coast Guard personnel are not only skilled in operating maritime assets, but also possess technical, operational, and legal expertise required for Maritime Law Enforcement. This ensures that all PCG operations are conducted within the bounds of Philippine law and international obligations.

Marcos pointed out that existing educational and training institutions do not fully impart the specialized competencies and ethos of Maritime Law Enforcement, forcing the PCG to invest additional time and resources to prepare new officers.

Under the bill, the Philippine Coast Guard Academy would be established on at least 20 hectares of land, ideally near the sea with a dock and medical facilities, to support comprehensive training and operations.