Coast Guard looking for 300 good men

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will be hiring about 300 personnel to man the 10 new patrol boats expected to arrive from Japan next year.

PCG spokesperson Commander Armand Balilo said priority would be given to applicants with the right qualifications.

“We need to recruit people who have taken maritime-related courses such as marine engineers and navigators. But we would also be needing those with mechanical, welding and electrical skills,” Balilo said.

The new patrol boats, set for delivery in 2014, are expected to boost the country’s territorial defense in the West Philippine Sea.

He said the PCG had one year to hire the personnel, who would be assigned to deck operation, navigation, gunnery and engineering jobs.

Those selected would undergo a yearlong training on the new boats.