The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has embarked on a joint maritime law enforcement operation with its Chinese counterpart, according to Philippine Coast Guard Spokesman Commander Armand Balilo.
Balilo said that since President Duterte’s visit to China last year, the Philippine Coast Guard’s relations with the Chinese Coast Guard had become better. There was more coordination and more friendly ties.
“The Philippine Coast Guard has received guidance from the President to cooperate and forge an agreement with the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), so we have clear cut guidelines from the President,” Balilo said.
The good thing is that the Philippine Coast Guard had established better rapport with their Chinese counterpart, while maintaining good relations with the United States Coast Guard.
Last May, the Philippine Coast Guard sent 20 of its officers to China for a two-week law enforcement training.
Next month, a Chinese Coast Guard ship may also visit the country.