District Collector Maritess Martin and SBMA chairman Rolen Paulino, Sr. lead launch of the patrol boats. Photos by Johnny R. Reblando
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Two fast patrol boats were launched by the Bureau of Customs-Port of Subic and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority on Wednesday.
Port of Subic district collector Maritess Martin said the two 12.7-meter fast patrol boats equipped with three engines are “multipurpose, functional, and quick response surface vessels that are capable of a top speed of 45 knots.”
Martin noted that the main purpose of these boats is “to deploy them for rapid interception of smugglers to foil smuggling activities and other fraudulent activities through consistent patrolling.”
She said she hoped to optimize the use of these boats to ensure the safety of littoral seas, waterways, and coastal infrastructure.
The two fast patrol boats will be used for joint operations of the Philippine Coast Guard and the BOC-Port of Subic in suppressing smuggling activities.
SBMA chairman and administrator Rolen Paulino, Sr. said “hindi lang sa pagpapatrolya sa karagatan ito pwedeng gamitin, puwede rin itong magamit sa search and rescue operation sa panahon ng kalamidad.”
