LOOK: PH Coast Guard gets new rescue ship from Japan

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is expecting in August a multi-role vessel from Japan that will help in its “various search and rescue and maritime security and law enforcement operations.”

The BRP Tubbataha, an MRRV-4401, will leave Yokohama on August 11, and will arrive at the Port of Manila on August 18. It will be formally turned over by the Japan International Cooperation Agency to the Philippine government on September 1.

The 44-meter vessel was built at the Japan Marine United Corporation Yokohama Shipyard. In a statement, the PCG cited BRP Tubbataha’s special features will be specially helpful in operations. They include fire monitors, night vision camera, radio direction finder, a work boat, and the bullet-proof navigational bridge.

Here are the ship’s particulars, according to the PCG:

Length: 44 meters
Breadth: 7.5 meters
Depth: 4 meters
Engine: MTU12V4000M93L
Output: 2,580 kw
Max Speed: Approximately 25 knots
Cruising range: 1,500 nautical miles
Complement: 25 persons

Japan is building 9 more MRRV’s for the Philippine Coast Guard. They “will also be named after the primary lighthouses in the country to denote its significance as one of the navigational aids in the maritime industry.”

The Japanese Coast Guard has also conducted sea drills with its Philippine counterpart since their two countries signed a Declaration for a Strengthened Strategic Partnership and its Action Plan in June 2015. – Rappler.com