ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) -- Romblon Congressman Eleandro Madrona is leading efforts in Congress to modernize the Philippine Coast Guard amidst escalating tensions with China in the West Philippine Sea.

In an interview, Madrona highlighted the pressing need to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard, especially in comparison to China's robust maritime assets. He expressed concerns about the inadequacy of the Philippine Coast Guard's assets, particularly in light of China's assertive actions in the region.

"The problem I see there is that the assets of the Coast Guard compared to China are really very inadequate. Unfortunately, there is no way for the US to supplement us at this time because that might be considered by China as interfering," according to Madrona.

Madrona emphasized the importance of reorganizing and modernizing the Philippine Coast Guard, with a focus on securing funding to upgrade its assets. He stressed the need to deploy additional assets to the West Philippine Sea to bolster the country's maritime security.

While tensions with China continues, Madrona clarified that the goal is not to engage in conflict but to ensure that the Philippines is prepared to protect its sovereignty.

Last week, the Committees on Ways & Means and Appropriations, along with the Committee on Transportation, approved, subject to style and amendments, the Technical Working Group report chaired by Madrona on the proposed Revised PCG Act and the inclusion of the PCG Modernization Act.

Madrona emphasized that modernization will not only enhance capabilities for securing the West Philippine Sea but will also bolster the Coast Guard's ability to protect Filipinos. (PJF/PIA Mimaropa-Romblon)