MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) displayed on Wednesday, June 12, its various assets for the public to tour and see, as part of celeberating  Independence Day.

Boats and jet skis were parked near Luneta Park in Manila City from 8 am to 11 am.

The display comes as experts and officials point to a threat in the country’s sovereign rights as China’s expansive claims encroaches into the West Philippine Sea, the part of South China Sea that belongs to the Philippines.

Just on Monday, the PCG spotted a Chinese warship accompanied by Chinese coast guard and militia boats in the vicinity of Scarborough or Panatag Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. There was no reported  harassment, but the PCG said that the presence of Chinese vessels has been consistent in the area.

In its statement for Independence Day, the PCG saluted the protectors of the country’s freedom.


“The Philippine Coast Gurd salutes all brave men and women who unselfishly dedicated their lives for the country’s freedom and those who continue to uphold peace in our nation,”

Here are photos from the tour:

– Rappler.com