THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has received a major technological boost in its maritime surveillance capabilities after Australia donated 20 advanced drones worth P34 million, along with specialized operator training, to enhance security in the West Philippine Sea.
The unmanned aerial systems (UAS) were turned over in a ceremony on Tuesday, attended by PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Hae Kyong Yu.
The donation is part of Australia's expanding civil maritime cooperation with the Philippines, which includes vessel maintenance, scholarships, operational training and marine protection initiatives.
The drones can be used to monitor the West Philippine Sea, where tensions with China have escalated over territorial disputes.
With their ability to conduct long-range surveillance, the UAS will provide real-time intelligence, helping the PCG detect illegal fishing, unauthorized incursions, and other maritime threats.
"This donation will greatly assist the PCG in advancing its role as a responsible protector of maritime rules, ensuring peace and prosperity for the Filipino people and all law-abiding users of our seas," Gavan said.
To maximize the drones' operational effectiveness, Australian drone specialists from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water's Office of the Chief Remote Pilot conducted an intensive four-day training program for 30 members of the PCG's Aviation Command Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Squadron.
The training covered advanced flight operations, data analysis and maintenance.
The drone donation follows Australia's 2024 commitment to double its civil maritime cooperation funding for the Philippines to P649 million from 2025 to 2029. Both nations signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen maritime collaboration.
"Australia stands with the Philippines in upholding a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. These drones are not just tools — they are a testament to our shared commitment to maritime security and regional stability," Yu said.