The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) sent off its contingents to participate in the 24th Regional Marine Pollution Exercise (Regional MARPOLEX) at Pier 13, South Harbor Manila, today, October 2, 2026.
The Regional MARPOLEX is scheduled from October 8 to 12, 2026 in Bitung–Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The exercise is hosted by the Directorate General of Sea Transportation (DGST) of Indonesia, in cooperation with the Japan Coast Guard (JCG).
Participating PCG vessels are BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) and BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401), with personnel from the Coast Guard Marine Environmental Protection Command (MEPCOM), Coast Guard Special Operations Force (CGSOF), Coast Guard Medical Service, and Coast Guard Nursing Service. The participating units will provide complementary capabilities in marine pollution response, emergency operations, rescue, and medical support.
The annual Regional MARPOLEX brings together maritime authorities and response organizations to strengthen preparedness, operational coordination, and interoperability in addressing marine pollution emergencies, including oil pollution and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS). It also provides an avenue for participating countries to exchange knowledge, test response procedures, and enhance coordinated regional response mechanisms.
Through its participation, the PCG reaffirms its commitment to strengthening national and regional capabilities to prevent, respond to, and mitigate marine pollution incidents, while promoting cooperation toward a safer, cleaner, and more resilient maritime environment.
[Photos by: SN2 Gimena PCG and ASN Calonia PCG/CGPAS]