The Indian government has friendly extended a gesture to enhance bilateral relations and reinforce the capacities of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Indian Government offers seven helicopters for use in the Philippines' rescue and humanitarian efforts during disasters.

The agreement is currently in the negotiation phase between the two parties. The proposal was a topic of conversation during a recent courtesy meeting between Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr and Shambhu Kumaran, the Indian Ambassador to the Philippines.

According to the Philippines's official press, President Marcos underscored the significance of "strengthening our country's ability – our capacity in areas such as our coast guard and, naturally, search and rescue, which always takes precedence."

The Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, Shambhu Kumaran, drew attention to the ongoing deliberations among the Indian government, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Department of Transportation (DOTr). These discussions revolve around the provision of seven helicopters to support the agency's maritime search and rescue missions and humanitarian initiatives.

This potential collaboration seeks to enhance the capabilities of the PCG, ensuring that it can effectively respond to maritime emergencies and bolster its capacity for humanitarian endeavours. The seven helicopters offered by the Indian government are intended to play a pivotal role in these critical operations, fostering stronger bilateral relations and advancing shared interests between the two nations.

"The discussion is going on very well," Kumaran noted. "The Coast Guard is very interested – they’ve flown the helicopter ... I would request your consideration because that would be a very positive [program]."

Kumaran also highlighted that the helicopters being offered to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have been originally designed for India's Navy and Coast Guard, equipped to facilitate more robust security operations capable of accommodating a greater number of individuals and cargo

He underlined the versatility and adaptability of these helicopters, which can be employed in a spectrum of operational scenarios, including those demanding heightened security measures and the transportation of larger passenger groups and cargo. These attributes make them an ideal choice for the PCG's evolving requirements.

He underscored the potential for enhancing the PCG's operational capabilities through the acquisition of these helicopters, which have been tailored to meet the demands of security and transportation needs, further solidifying the partnership between India and the Philippines.

President Marcos expressed his intention to engage in deliberations with DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista regarding India's proposal to the PCG. He said the potential beneficial effects of this initiative on the PCG's capabilities, particularly in the domain of search and rescue.

This announcement coincides with the increasing significance of defense as a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. The Philippines holds the distinction of being the initial country to procure BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles from India. Additionally, the two countries are in the process of establishing a maritime dialogue.

Image source: The Print