BATANGAS CITY (PIA) – To improve maritime security, safety, and operational capabilities in Southern Luzon, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed two High-Speed Response Boats (HSRBs) to patrol waters off Batangas City.
 
The HSRBs are engineered to execute missions in coastal territories.
 
The patrol boats are equipped with advanced features, including gun mounts that can be used  in tactical operations, and 36- nautical- mile- range radar for enhanced situational awareness and navigation capabilities.
 
The boats typically offer improved speed, maneuverability, and capability to respond to various situations swiftly and effectively with modern features such as a marine VHF radio interfaced with an electronic navigation system, a global positioning system (GPS), an automatic identification system (AIS), a dual trumpet marine- grade navigation horn, and an illuminated magnetic compass for navigation and signaling purposes. 
 
According to the PCG, the new high-speed response boats are a significant step towards enhancing maritime operations and safety in the region, as the vessels are capable of achieving a full speed of not less than 40 knots at full load conditions, and can withstand and remain functional even in sea state 3 conditions, with survivability ensured up to sea state 4 conditions.
 
Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas and Vice Gov. Mark Leviste witnessed the deployment of the HSRBs, together with Deputy Commander for Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) Captain Jerome Jeciel.

Mandanas emphasized the importance of the Coast Guard in maintaining peace and security in the coastal areas. He said that the new vessels will contribute to the protection of maritime assets, environmental conservation, and the well-being of those involved in maritime activities.
 
"The ocean is our true wealth and development tool. PCG's role is important in maintaining peace and order on our coasts,” he said.
 
Mandanas committed to continuously supporting the PCG by donating land for its future facilities and assisting in the implementation of its programs and initiatives. (AM/PIA-4A; with reports from Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog)