A contingent of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) visited the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Sector Honolulu on Thursday as part of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise 2026 in Hawaii.
In a statement on Friday, the PCG said the visit was an opportunity for professional engagement and exchange of best practices in maritime operations, maritime law enforcement, search and rescue and maritime security.
“[The delegation gained] firsthand insight into the USCG’s operational capabilities, shipboard systems, and mission execution,” it said.
It also emphasized that the visit strengthened interoperability and the longstanding partnership between the PCG and the USCG.
“The engagement reflects the PCG’s commitment to continuously enhancing the knowledge, skills, and operational readiness of its personnel through international cooperation and professional exchanges,” it said.
The PCG delegation was led by Commander Task Force 93, Rear Adm. Weniel Azcuna and Deputy Commander Task Force 93, Commodore Dann August Cariño.
The previous day, the PCG also participated in the Canadian-led Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) Tier 1 – All Service Members Course during the RIMPAC.
The PCG, alongside multinational service members from allied and partner nations, went through training for trauma-related emergencies in operational environments.
“Designed primarily for non-medical personnel, the course focused on life-saving interventions, casualty assessment, and immediate trauma care techniques that can be applied during maritime and joint operations,” it said.
The biennial RIMPAC exercise began on June 24 until July 31 and will bring 31 partner nations in and around the Hawaiian Islands for a multinational maritime exercise.
The exercise will feature a multinational force of approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 140 aircraft and more than 25,000 personnel.
This year’s event is the PCG’s first time joining as a participant, not just an observer, after it was deemed to have reached the minimum level of fleet readiness. (PNA)