The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) celebrated a significant milestone as they received the cutting-edge HYBRID VERTICAL TAKE-OFF AND LANDING (VTOL) DRONE from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on July 18, 2023. The handover ceremony took place at the National Headquarters, Port Area, Manila, marking a crucial moment in enhancing the country’s maritime defense capabilities and ensuring the safety of its coasts and shorelines. Developed by Bridge Services Pte. Ltd., this remarkable VTOL drone holds special significance as it is the FIRST HYBRID VTOL DRONE built by Filipinos, exclusively designated for ownership and operation by the Philippine government.
Expressing gratitude for the donation, PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, conveyed his appreciation to UNODC for their continued partnership in advancing maritime law enforcement in the region. The drone’s advanced capabilities will undoubtedly aid the PCG in tackling various challenges related to maritime security and crime prevention. During the momentous handover ceremony, key figures including PCG Deputy Commandant for Operations, CG Vice Admiral Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr., International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Advisor Mark Everson, UNODC-Global Maritime Crime Programme National Programme Officer Frances Damaso, representatives from Bridge Services Pte. Ltd., and Dodeca’s Research and Development Team were present to witness this landmark event.
This exceptional technological achievement will bolster the country’s monitoring capabilities, enabling the Coast Guard Aviation Force (CGAF) to conduct more effective surveillance missions. As the Philippine Coast Guard embraces this state-of-the-art technology, they are poised to navigate the future of maritime law enforcement effectively. The VTOL drone stands as a symbol of progress, cooperation, and commitment to safeguarding the country’s waters and coastal territories from potential threats. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG, Tanod Baybayin ng Pilipinas) is recognized as the third armed uniformed service[6] of the country attached to the Philippines’ Department of Transportation, tasked primarily with enforcing laws within Philippine waters.
