Manila, Philippines – In a demonstration of maritime cooperation and environmental stewardship, the Indian Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar made its port of call at Manila Bay, Philippines on March 25, 2024. This visit marks the commencement of a three-day engagement as part of its overseas deployment to ASEAN countries.
The arrival of Samudra Paheredar, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, underscores India’s commitment to combat marine pollution in the ASEAN region. This initiative aims to showcase the Indian Coast Guard’s advanced Marine Pollution Response capabilities while fostering bilateral cooperation with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
This deployment, spanning from March 25 to April 12, 2024, is the third consecutive mission by the Indian Coast Guard to ASEAN countries. Preceding this, in 2023, similar missions were conducted, reaffirming India’s dedication to regional maritime security and environmental protection.
During its stay, Samudra Paheredar is scheduled to visit key ports including Manila (Philippines), Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam), and Muara (Brunei). Equipped with specialized pollution control equipment and a Chetak Helicopter configured for Pollution Response operations, the vessel stands ready to contain and recover oil spills effectively.
Furthermore, the ship has embarked 25 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets to participate in the “Puneet Sagar Abhiyan,” an initiative aimed at international outreach and environmental conservation. Collaborating with local authorities and organizations, these cadets will engage in beach clean-up efforts, enhancing the mission’s impact beyond maritime cooperation.
This visit holds strategic significance in strengthening bilateral ties with maritime agencies across ASEAN countries, including the Philippine Coast Guard, Vietnam Coast Guard, and Brunei Maritime agencies. Through professional exchanges, joint exercises, and capacity-building engagements, these relationships continue to evolve, ensuring safety, security, and environmental preservation in the region.
ICGS Samudra Paheredar, commanded by Deputy Inspector General Sudhir Ravindran and stationed in Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, stands as a testament to India’s commitment to maritime operations ranging from pollution control to search and rescue efforts.
The visit of Samudra Paheredar to Manila Bay serves as a beacon of cooperation and shared responsibility in safeguarding our oceans for future generations.
