Will China’s might capsize the Philippines’ ‘most powerful coastguard’ ambitions?

Manila plans to add dozens of ships over the next few years. But experts doubt that will unnerve the world’s largest coastguard fleet

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A Chinese coastguard ship shadows a Philippine vessel on patrol in the South China Sea. Photo: AFP

Published: 12:00pm, 15 Dec 2024

The Philippines is gearing up to transform its coastguard into what it claims will be “the most powerful” in Southeast Asia by acquiring 46 new ships over the next five to seven years. But will it be enough to counter Beijing’s maritime muscle in the South China Sea?

Coastguard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan was unequivocal about the country’s ambition in remarks reported by GMA News. “In effect, we are poised to become the most powerful coastguard in Southeast Asia,” he said on Monday.

The plan encompasses 40 vessels financed through a French loan worth 25.8 billion pesos (US$441.8 million) and five additional ships from Japan, as part of a US$420 million loan deal with Tokyo. By 2028, this fleet expansion promises to cement the Philippine coastguard as a formidable regional force.

“This is a game changer for us,” Gavan said during a security forum in Manila on December 5. “This will enable the coastguard to hold the position as the youngest fleet in Southeast Asia. In five years, we foresee that we will become the most respected and the most able coastguard.”

Philippine coastguard chief Ronnie Gil Gavan (front right) shakes hands with his South Korean counterpart during a meeting in Manila in October. Photo: EPA-EFE

Currently, the Philippine coastguard operates 62 patrol vessels and four support ships, a modest fleet compared to regional counterparts. Vietnam’s coastguard reportedly boasts more than 70 vessels, while Malaysia has 74 patrol ships.