The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
BAGAC, BATAAN — Operational readiness is critical to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), whose personnel must be physically capable, mentally alert, technically proficient, and prepared to respond to maritime emergencies, conduct search-and-rescue operations, protect the country’s coastal waters and maritime borders. Beyond equipment and resources, a ready Coast Guard depends on the health, fitness, and resilience of the people who carry out these demanding responsibilities.
Recognizing the importance of keeping the country’s maritime defenders fit and mission-ready, Bell-Kenz Pharma supported the Philippine Coast Guard Special Services Center in mounting the ULTIMA Coast Guard Challenge, a two-day competition designed to test the endurance, mental agility, teamwork, and technical capabilities of Coast Guard personnel.
Held on September 29 to 30 at the Philippine Coast Guard Academy in Bagac, Bataan, the challenge gathered 24 teams from various PCG commands, districts, and units as part of the agency’s 125th anniversary pre-celebration activities.
Through this initiative, Bell-Kenz reinforces its role as a health and wellness partner of the PCG, recognizing that personnel readiness is an essential part of the Coast Guard’s ability to fulfill its mandate and serve the Filipino people.
“The reason why we wanted to collaborate with the Coast Guard is we feel that we’d like to thank you for the great work that you do, and help you keep yourself FIT to continue doing what you need to do for the country,” said Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma.
“It is really being able to contribute to the overall security and economic growth of this country,” he added.
Putting Coast Guard Readiness to the Test
The ULTIMA Coast Guard Challenge featured 11 stages across two phases, putting participants through a series of demanding physical and technical tests. These included mission-ready fitness, team endurance running, Coast Guard seamanship, firearms proficiency, rubber boat carrying and recovery, lifesaving skills, swimming, rescue swimming, and Coast Guard law proficiency and West Philippine Sea awareness.
The Philippine Coast Guard Academy emerged as the overall champion, receiving ₱50,000, a perpetual trophy, and a gift pack of Ultima, ProNerv, EnPlus Gold, and BioPro. Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog placed second, earning ₱30,000 and a gift pack of Ultima, ProNerv, and BioPro, while the Coast Guard Education, Training and Doctrine Command secured third place, receiving ₱20,000 and a gift pack of Ultima and BioPro.
Bell-Kenz Pharma and the PCG also recognized the ULTIMA 10, the winning teams across the individual competition stages, highlighting the specialized skills and determination demonstrated by participating units.
Investing in the People Behind the Mission
For Bell-Kenz Pharma, supporting the PCG goes beyond participating in an anniversary activity. It reflects the company’s recognition that the health and well-being of frontline personnel are integral to their ability to carry out their duties and respond to evolving operational demands.
Captain Cheryl D. Boblo, Chief of Staff of the Coast Guard Human Resource Management Command, emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and adaptability among Coast Guard personnel.
“The challenges we face as a Coast Guard are constantly evolving, and we must remain adaptable, resilient, and always ready to answer the call of duty,” Boblo said.
“Let this event serve as a reminder that our strength lies not just in our assets and equipment, but in the unwavering dedication and exceptional capabilities of our personnel,” she added.
Through initiatives such as the ULTIMA Coast Guard Challenge, Bell-Kenz Pharma reaffirms its commitment to supporting the health and wellness of the men and women safeguarding the country’s waters, and serving the Filipino people.
For more information about Bell-Kenz Pharma, visit https://www.bell-kenz.net