Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 5173)
The main purpose of creating the Philippine Coast Guard is to enforce applicable laws on the high seas and waters under Philippine jurisdiction, promote safety of life and property within maritime jurisdiction, and to develop and operate aids to maritime navigation and rescue facilities.
The objectives include enforcement of laws on the high seas, promoting safety of life and property, and maintaining aids to maritime navigation and rescue facilities.
The Board of Visitors is composed of the Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy, Commissioners of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Immigration, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the President of the Filipino Shipowners Association, and the Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard as an ex-officio member.
Functions include preventing illegal entry and smuggling, suppressing destructive fishing methods, enforcing maritime navigation rules, approving vessel construction and registration, issuing licenses for maritime officers, investigating marine casualties, and rendering aid to distressed persons or vessels.
Yes, it supervises nautical schools specifically related to navigation, seamanship, marine engineering, and allied matters in coordination with the Department of Education.
Personnel are deemed peace officers and law enforcement agents of the Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Fisheries Commission, and other agencies for enforcement of pertinent laws, rules, and regulations.
The Philippine Coast Guard is headed by a Commandant who is a Flag Officer. Organization and equipping of units require approval by the Secretary of National Defense and the Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy.
Violators may face a fine of 100 to 500 pesos or imprisonment of 30 days to 6 months, or both. For associations or corporations, responsible officers or directors shall be penalized. The Coast Guard may also impose administrative penalties.
No, under Section 5, no person, association or corporation may establish, erect, or maintain any aid to maritime navigation without prior authorization from the Philippine Coast Guard.
Personnel transferred shall continue under Civil Service Law and other existing laws concerning their status, rights, emoluments, and benefits, ensuring no loss of rank, office, employment, or salary.