THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) recently concluded a technical cooperation mission that is seen to modernize the aids to navigation (ATON) and vessel traffic system (VTS) operations in Manila Bay.
During a Feedback Conference held at the headquarters of the Maritime Safety Services Command (HMSSC) last May 8, 2026, both parties emphasized the need to enhance the VTS operations in Manila Bay, improvement of radar coverage and buoy management systems, harmonization of navigational data, modernization of lighthouse and buoy maintenance strategies, and the implementation of internationally recognized IALA standards for maritime safety operations and training.
The discussions also underscored the importance of local capability development through standardized IALA Model Courses, stronger inter-agency coordination, and continued collaboration toward the development of unified and digitalized navigational information systems, including S-100 and S-201 implementation initiatives.
“The discussions held at Namria and aboard BRP Gabriela Silang with the Philippine Ports Authority have been enlightening. We take to heart the recommendations to invest in local capability development and the potential for a memorandum of understanding between the Philippine Coast Guard and IALA to facilitate ongoing technical support,” PCG Vice Admiral Genito Basilio, commander of Maritime Safety Services Command, said.
“This visit has been a resounding success. Reaching from the historic heights of Light Station Pasig to the critical sea lanes of Manila Bay, in our exit briefing, we have emerged with a clear technical roadmap in improving light synchronization, modernizing radar capabilities at VTS manila, and harmonizing data with Namria to ensure our nautical products meet the highest global standards of precision,” said Commodore Lawrence Roque, commander of Aids to Navigation Service (ANS).
He also thanked the Manila Harbor Pilots Association for their “honest insights that will help better serve the Filipino maritime community.”
The engagement concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to sustained international cooperation and maritime safety modernization efforts aimed at strengthening the Philippines’ navigational safety framework in accordance with global best practices.
The five-day country visit and technical cooperation was attended by Rear Admiral Vincent Harald François Denamur, Dean of the IALA Worldwide Academy, and Gerardine Delanoye, Capacity Building manager.
Delegates from the IALA Worldwide Academy were given a tour of the Cavite Buoy Base and key MSSC facilities.
An interactive discussion and open forum with the Command’s officers was also held, focusing on maritime navigational safety initiatives, VTS, ATON management, capability development, and alignment with international maritime safety standards.