Purpose of the PCGA
The PCGA continues to exist and has been a substantial contributor to the accomplishments of the Philippine Coast Guard that involves promoting maritime safety, search and rescue, marine environment protection and preservation, youth development and humanitarian service, among others. The PCGA’s mission, however, does not extend to direct maritime law enforcement as it remains a non-military organization whose functions include:
- Assisting the Philippine Coast Guard in Search and Rescue and in responding to ship emergency situations;
- Promoting safe operation of vessels and the conservation of the country’s marine resources through information dissemination and training, and in responding to emergencies at sea that involves containment of marine pollution and the protection of marine resources;
- Assisting in the maintenance and development of Aids to Navigation and promoting its significance;
- Promoting youth development with a view to enhancing the youth’s deep concern for sea safety and the protection of the marine environment;
- Promoting goodwill and fellowship in the PCGA and with relevant domestic and international organizations;
- Assisting the PCG in other concerns based on its plans and programs duly authorized by the PCG.
Legislation Affecting the Auxiliary
The legislation primarily affecting the PCGA is Republic Act No. 5173, the law which created the Philippine Coast Guard and prescribed its powers and functions. This law explicitly enumerated the functions of the PCG to which the auxiliary renders assistance as authorized by the PCG. |
