The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Swedish government reaffirmed their commitment to maritime cooperation during a high-level meeting held Wednesday at the PCG headquarters in Manila. The dialogue focused on addressing security challenges in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and safeguarding the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Deputy Director General Daniel Wolven of Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs led the Swedish delegation and received a comprehensive briefing from PCG officials on current maritime threats and patrol operations. Vice Admiral Edgar Ybañez, representing PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, expressed gratitude for Sweden’s continued support, including postgraduate opportunities for PCG officers at the World Maritime University in Malmö. Wolven commended the PCG’s transparency and noted its recognition as the most reliable source of updates on WPS developments. The meeting aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to deepen international collaboration for regional stability and a rules-based maritime order. (PNA)

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