Law of the Sea courses launched

On this #WorldMaritimeDay, Australia is working with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to improve maritime law enforcement operations through specialized Law of the Sea courses. These courses are designed for leaders like Commander Dulce Erika Alcaraz, who shared her story: 

“My journey began as a full-time dragon boat athlete, competing for our country in Southeast Asia and China. After graduating from UP Diliman, I wanted to make a bigger impact and save lives by joining the Philippine Coast Guard as a pilot. 

Protecting our seas has been challenging due to limited resources and rising maritime threats. But cooperation on synchronized operations and short courses under the   Strategic Partnership have strengthened our capabilities. 

The #AustraliaAndThePhilippines Strategic Partnership also benefits those in the maritime industry and helps sustain the livelihoods of our coastal communities, ultimately providing our country with food security. 

I commit to continue upholding international law, maintaining maritime security and protecting our marine environment for the future generation of our nation.” 

Australia is strengthening its civil maritime cooperation with the Philippines through a Memorandum of Understanding on Enhanced Maritime Cooperation. 

This MOU further bolsters our already strong maritime partnership across civil maritime security, marine environmental protection, maritime domain awareness, defense cooperation and promoting respect for international law.