The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) intends to deploy advanced drones to enhance its capabilities and reinforce border security.

Rear Admiral Armando Balilo, the PCG's spokesperson, stated that deploying drones might save the PCG time and fuel when conducting maritime patrols.

Likewise, he also discussed the PCG's trilateral maritime exercise with the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in Mariveles, Bataan, which took place from June 1 to 7.

During the "Kaagapay" maneuvers, Balilo said the PCG discovered that the USCG has a huge drone capable of conducting surveillance operations in neighboring waters. The JCG also employs surveillance drones manufactured in the United States.

He admitted that a modern drone is expensive but emphasized that the cost-effectiveness of its unmanned operability and high-security features would outweigh the cost of vessel procurement.

Drones, according to Balilo, will make it easier to monitor the presence of foreign vessels and other illegal marine activity.

Given its "limited budget," the PCG has yet to include the anticipated acquisition of drones in the list of equipment that will be bought as part of the Coast Guard's ongoing modernization efforts, he said.

Balilo, on the other hand, stated that some countries have expressed an interest in providing funds for the purchase of drones.

He believes drones represent the "future of maritime patrol" in the country.