Phl, Sweden strengthen maritime cooperation amid WPS challenges

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and officials from Sweden met recently to discuss maritime security challenges in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the country’s broader territorial waters, focusing on efforts to safeguard the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

In a statement, the PCG said the meeting aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen international cooperation and partnerships in addressing maritime concerns.

“The courtesy visit reflected the strong and enduring friendship between the Philippines and Sweden and marked another step forward in their mutual pursuit of enhanced maritime cooperation and regional stability,” the PCG said.

During the visit, Swedish Deputy Director General for Asia, the Pacific Region, and Latin America Daniel Wolven, along with other delegates from Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs, received a detailed briefing on the WPS situation. 

The discussion covered current maritime threats, ongoing PCG patrol operations, and measures to protect the country’s EEZ.

Wolven commended the PCG for its transparency and acknowledged its crucial role in upholding maritime security. He also noted a recent survey ranking the PCG as the most trusted government agency for updates on the WPS.

Representing PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, Vice Admiral Edgar Ybañez, Deputy Commandant for Operations, expressed gratitude to Sweden for its steadfast friendship and support. 

He also cited Sweden’s assistance in providing postgraduate study opportunities for PCG officers at the World Maritime University in Malmö, further strengthening the agency’s capacity for maritime governance.