Second multi-role vessel ‘Malabrigo’ joins Coast Guard

Minister Makoto Iyori of the Embassy of Japan together with Transportation Undersecretary Felipe Judan on Thursday led the commissioning ceremony of the second multi-role response vessel (MRRV) “Malabrigo” given to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

The MRRV Malabrigo is the second of ten 40-meter MRRVs Japan has handed over to the PCG. The first was BRP Tubbataha that was commissioned in October  this year.

READ: BRP Tubbataha goes on duty

In his speech, Iyori said the project aimed to refine the “PCG’s capabilities to quickly and appropriately address maritime operations along Philippine coasts such as patrol, search and rescue, and law enforcement.”

“Just like the first vessel ‘Tubbataha’, I am confident that the “Malabrigo” will further attest to the friendship between Japan and the Philippines. I would like to conclude my remarks by reconfirming that we will continue to work together with the Government of the Philippines to further deepen our relations,” Iyori said.

The remaining eight vessels will be delivered sequentially until 2018./rga