Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has greenlit the creation of 4,000 new uniformed positions within the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to bolster the agency's operational capabilities. According to Philippines News Agency, the newly sanctioned positions comprise 819 officers and 3,181 non-officers. This strategic initiative aims to empower the PCG to better fulfill its mandate, which includes maritime safety administration, marine environmental protection, maritime security and law enforcement, and maritime search and rescue operations. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized the critical role of the PCG in national security and disaster response, stating, "Mahalaga ang gampanin nila sa pagprotekta sa seguridad ng bansa at pag-agapay sa mga kababayan natin tuwing may kalamidad o sakuna (They play an important role in protecting the country's security and supporting our countrymen whenever there is a calamity or disaster)." She further expressed solidarity with the PCG's mission, add ing, "That's why we are one with them in building a more resilient and responsive PCG workforce." The PCG's request for 4,000 additional positions is a part of its 2024 target under a seven-year recruitment plan. With the approval of these new positions, the total number of PCG personnel will rise to 34,430 from the current 30,430 authorized positions.