The training, which ran from January 13 to 24, focused on vessel boarding and arrest techniques as part of a broader effort to strengthen regional cooperation in response to rising maritime tensions, according to the U.S. Embassy in Manila.
Philippine Coast Guard District Commander Rejard V. Marfe described the training as "invaluable" in equipping participants to address maritime threats. The program covered various topics, including safe vessel boarding, maritime law, evidence collection, risk mitigation, and arrest techniques. Officials from the Australian Border Force observed the sessions, including customs enforcers and fisheries surveillance personnel.
The initiative comes amid growing concerns over the South China Sea maritime conflict. China has significantly expanded its naval activities and deployed vessels to challenge Philippine access to strategic reefs and islands in recent months.
Incidents involving Vietnamese and Indonesian vessels have also highlighted rising tensions in the region. In October, Hanoi accused Chinese forces of attacking and robbing Vietnamese fishermen, while Indonesia reported driving off a Chinese coast guard vessel from contested waters on three occasions within a single week.
While the U.S. Embassy's statement did not directly reference China, the training reflects a regional push for enhanced maritime law enforcement capabilities to protect sovereignty and ensure peace in disputed waters.
