MANILA (PR) — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is set to install the first three of 10 state-of-the-art lighted ocean buoys to mark the Philippine Rise, formerly known as the Benham Rise, as part of the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on 12 May 2021.
The 30-foot long buoys arrived in Cebu from Valencia, Spain on 07 May 2021. Said ocean markers were carefully assembled by the PCG Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) and M-NAV Solutions Inc. The Uni-Orient Pearl Ventures Inc. Shipyard where the buoys were delivered also assisted during the assembling process.
On Monday, 10 May 2021, PCG Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr inspected the buoys that are equipped with modern marine aids to navigation lanterns, specialized mooring systems, and a remote monitoring system that uses satellite technology to transmit data to the PCG National Headquarters in Port Area, Manila.
Together with M-NAV Solutions Inc. Marine Aids to Navigation (AtoN) Specialist, Engineer Adrian Van Boven, PCG District Central Visayas Commander, Rear Admiral William U Isaga, and Technical Inspection Team of the PCG MSSC, the Coast Guard Commandant also checked the equipment and other materials that will be used to install the ocean markers in the Philippine Rise situated 250 kilometers east of the northern coastline of Aurora.
During the inspection, Admiral Ursabia said the presence of buoys in the Philippine Rise will effectively communicate that said vicinity waters is considered a special protected zone. Hence, mining and oil exploration are strictly prohibited to preserve their rich natural resources.
Moreover, said ocean markers will also be used by the PCG to mark the designated food supply exclusive zone and ensure safe navigation in the Philippine Rise. (PCG/PRESS RELEASE)