The participating delegations were welcomed by the City Government of Bitung, led by Mayor Hengky Honandar. The ceremony highlighted the maritime partnership among the Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan in advancing marine environmental protection and regional maritime safety.
On the sidelines of the event, Rear Admiral Christopher Meniado, Head of the Philippine Delegation, paid a courtesy visit to Consul General Mary Jennifer Domingo Dingal of the Philippine Consulate General in Manado.
During the visit, Dingal underscored the importance of strengthening maritime and border patrol cooperation between the Philippines and Indonesia, citing the close geographic and maritime ties between the two countries across the Celebes Sea. She also expressed the Consulate's support for initiatives that promote maritime safety and security in the region.
In response, Meniado conveyed the PCG's support for the Consulate's initiatives and reaffirmed the Service's commitment to working closely with the Philippine Consulate General in Manado to further strengthen maritime and border patrol cooperation.
The Philippine delegation also engaged with Dr. Triono, Head of the Indonesian Delegation, and Captain Kyoko Ono, Head of the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) Delegation.
The ceremony also recognized the participation of BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301), under Captain Gary Laynesa; BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401), under Captain Jesse Guiniling; Indonesian vessel KN Sarotama, under Captain Nico Morris Selayar; and Japan Coast Guard vessel PLH Shikishima, under Captain Otsida Masahiro, together with their respective officers and crew members.
Through its participation in Regional MARPOLEX Indonesia 2026, the PCG aims to enhance its operational capabilities, strengthen interoperability with international maritime counterparts in the region, and promote the exchange of best practices in marine pollution prevention, preparedness, and response.
Source: Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)