The Indian government is offering the Philippines at least seven helicopters seen to bolster the rescue and humanitarian endeavors of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) quoted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as saying India’s offer will “boost efforts to build up the country’s capabilities in terms of rescue and humanitarian efforts.”
“We’re trying to build up our capacity —our capabilities in terms of our coast guard, in terms of our—of course, the search and rescue is always the primary consideration,” the President said.
The Chief Executive made the remarks during last week’s courtesy call of Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shambhu Kumaran.
Mr. Marcos and Kumaran talked about continuing efforts to strengthe bilateral relations between the Philippines and India.
Kumaran said there are already ongoing talks between the Indian government, the PCG and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for the supply of the seven helicopters.
“The discussion is going on very well. The Coast Guard is very interested—they’ve flown the helicopter … I would request your consideration because that would be a very positive [program],” Kumaran told President Marcos.
The envoy also said the helicopters that will be provided to the PCG were built for India’s Navy and Coast Guard, but could be used for more active security operations, and could carry more people and load.
“So, these helicopters are really an optimal solution, given the changing requirements for the Philippine Coast Guard to play a more active role and its security,” Kumaran added.