In a move aimed at bolstering maritime security and national development, the Philippines' National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board approved three key projects during its eleventh meeting on Thursday. Among the green-lighted initiatives is a P29.3 billion ($580 million) Japanese loan for the procurement of five multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), according to NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan.
The MRRVs are part of Phase 3 of the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project, initiated under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s tenure. The deal also includes a five-year integrated logistics support plan. These vessels, set for delivery between 2027 and 2028, will play crucial roles in enforcing maritime laws, combating illegal activities in Philippine waters, and providing disaster response.
The procurement comes amid heightened territorial conflicts with China in the West Philippine Sea, a situation underscored by an incident in October involving a clash between Chinese and Philippine boats. The new vessels are expected to facilitate rotation and resupply missions in this disputed region, adding a significant boost to the country's maritime jurisdiction.
In addition to the MRRV procurement, the NEDA board also approved the Agrarian Reform Department's PBBM Bridges project and modifications to the TPLEX extension project, further emphasizing the country's commitment to national development and security.
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