The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and a senior official from the United States House of Representatives met in Manila to discuss ways to strengthen maritime security cooperation, including efforts in the West Philippine Sea.
The PCG said Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan hosted Maseh Zarif, staff director of the U.S. House Select Committee on China, at the agency’s national headquarters on Monday.
According to the PCG, the meeting reaffirmed the longstanding alliance between the Philippines and the United States, with both sides discussing cooperation on maritime security, search and rescue operations, capacity building, and maintaining a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
Gavan said existing defense and maritime agreements between the two countries continue to improve coordination, information sharing and law enforcement cooperation at sea.
Among the mechanisms discussed were the Mutual Defense Board, the Security Engagement Board, and the Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Agreement.
The two sides also tackled the PCG’s participation in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 exercise, a multinational naval drill that aims to improve coordination among allied maritime forces.
Other topics included improving the Philippines’ maritime monitoring capabilities through better communications systems, fleet modernization, and personnel development to enhance operational readiness.
Gavan said the PCG’s greatest strength remains its professionalism, commitment to international law, and adherence to the truth.
The coast guard said the meeting supports ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime cooperation with allies and improve regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
