The Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) was established on February 9, 1972. On that date during a gathering at the Philippine Navy Officers' Club commemorating the Philippine Navy Day, the Coast Guard Commandant announced the intention of the Navy Flag Officer-in-Command to form a civilian volunteer unit to assist thePhilippine Coast Guard (PCG). The attendants of the gathering supported the plan including the members of theManila Yacht Club leading to the formation of what was later known as the PCGA.[1]
The current iteration of the PCGA is institutionalized by Republic Act No. 9993 or the PCG Law of 2009.[1]
Rescue boat and personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary at the 2013 Paraw Regatta, Villa Beach, Villa de Arevalo, Iloilo City
The PCGA assists the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) but is not directly part of the PCG. This includes assistance inrelief andsearch and rescue operations.[2]
PCGA members are uniformed volunteers. However, they are not commissioned officers or enlisted personnel of the PCG and therefore had distinct uniforms and insignia from the regular coast guard. Since the PCGA often is involved in search and rescue operations, its members include boat and shipping company owners. Previously the PCGA was open to foreign citizens. As of 2018, there were no perceived security threat at the time. However, the PCGA made its vetting process stricter in 2025.[3][4][5]
Since AdmiralRonnie Gil Gavan's assumption as PCG commandant in 2023, PCGA members are required to secure national clearances. In 2024, there are about 5,000 PCGA members.[6]
Philippines
