NEDA Board OKs acquisition of fast patrol crafts

Chaired by President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr., the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board approved the acquisition of 40 units of fast patrol craft (FPC). 

The acquisition, valued at P25.8 billion and funded through official development assistance from the French government, includes 40 FPCs, 20 of which will be locally built, Integrated Logistics Support, and support equipment for Philippine Coast Guard bases. 

''The project aligns with the government’s objective of enhancing maritime security by upgrading the capabilities of institutions such as the Philippine Coast Guard,'' NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said in a press release.

''The new FPCs will help deter smuggling and illegal activities while ensuring the enforcement of maritime sovereignty in critical marine areas,” he added. 

The NEDA Board meeting took place on Tuesday, November 5, at the Malacañang Palace.

The Marcos administration has since vowed to support the development and modernization of the country's assets, particularly for ensuring security in the Philippine maritime territories. 

The NEDA Board said the FPCs would develop the country’s response capabilities when it comes to search and rescue operations, environmental protection, maritime law enforcement, and disaster response.

Aside from the purchase of these assets, the Board also approved extensions and cost increases for two flood-control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways: the Cavite Industrial Area-Flood Risk Management Project (CIA-FRMP) and the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project, Phase IV (PMRCIP IV).

—VAL, GMA Integrated News