Manila: Senator Raffy Tulfo on Wednesday pledged to advocate for an increased budget for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in response to recent maritime incidents that highlighted significant deficiencies in sea rescue capabilities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tulfo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Public Services, expressed his commitment after discovering the Coast Guard's limited resources, with only two rescue helicopters available across the country despite its archipelagic nature. Tulfo announced his intention to file a bill aimed at modernizing the PCG, and in the interim, he plans to propose additional funding for helicopters during upcoming budget hearings.

The senator's remarks came during a public hearing convened in the aftermath of the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 sinking near Basilan, which resulted in 316 survivors, 18 confirmed deaths, and 10 individuals still missing. Tulfo criticized the incident as unacceptable and called on relevant agencies to ensure accountability, suggesting that mere suspensions were insufficient and advocating for imprisonment if necessary, particularly in light of reports linking Aleson Shipping Lines to at least 32 maritime incidents since 2019.

During the hearing, PCG Liaison Officer Commodore Oliver Tanseco informed the panel that the service ideally requires at least two helicopters per district, amounting to a minimum of 32 aircraft nationwide, to ensure timely responses to sea accidents. Tanseco emphasized the critical importance of response time at sea, where hypothermia poses a significant threat to individuals in the water.

Tulfo indicated he would consider an initial goal of acquiring 10 to 12 helicopters, acknowledging the vital role air assets play in facilitating rapid rescue operations and coordination, particularly during large-scale maritime emergencies.