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MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday cried foul over the “unfair” remarks made by Cavite 4th District Rep. Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga.
In a statement, PCG Spokesperson, Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, said Barzaga’s statement was “unfair to the dedicated men and women of the PCG.”
“The PCG is a professional, disciplined, and accountable government agency that operates with full transparency and under civilian oversight. The Command welcomes public scrutiny, and any credible allegations of misconduct will be investigated in accordance with due process,” Cayabyab said.
The statement was in response to Barzaga’s claim that the PCG should be abolished as it has been “escalating tensions in the WPS with the idiotic goal of interfering with China and Taiwan’s eventual reunification.”
He added that the PCG will become the cause of World War III.
She said the PCG “respects the right of elected officials to express their views on national matters” and offered a dialogue with the lawmaker.
“The Command remains open to dialogue with Congressman Barzaga and all stakeholders in Congress to clarify misconceptions and strengthen cooperation toward maritime security and safety,” she said.
In addition, Barzaga accused the PCG of corruption over high-ranking positions being given to “undeserving public officials,” particularly former House of Representatives Speaker, Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, and Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation Larry Gadon.
In response, she clarified that the PCG and the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) are two distinct entities, with the latter composed of civilian volunteers who assist in community-based and humanitarian missions.
“PCGA members are not active-duty PCG officers, and their honorary ranks do not confer authority or compensation,” she said.
“The PCG will continue to fulfill its mandates with integrity, courage, and selfless commitment to the Filipino people by protecting lives and upholding the rule of law at sea.”
— Raymond Carl Dela Cruz (PNA)
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Credit belongs to: www.pna.gov.ph
