Davao City: The United States Coast Guard's Southeast Asia Training Team (SEATT) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recently concluded a multinational Boarding Officer Course in Davao City. This training, held from January 13 to 24, focused on enhancing regional maritime security and law enforcement capabilities.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) funded this inaugural SEATT training in Mindanao. This initiative underscores a significant commitment to addressing maritime challenges in the region, as highlighted in a statement by the US Embassy in the Philippines.

The course included 32 participants from various organizations, including the PCG, Philippine National Police-Maritime Group, and officials from Vietnam and Indonesia. The Australian Border Force also engaged in the training's first week as an observer, further broadening its scope.

A notable feature of the course was the involvement of a Vietnamese instructor, which the statement highlighted as a testament to the event's collaborative nature. The training covered key areas such as maritime law, evidence handling, safety measures, and arrest techniques, complemented by practical sessions like vessel boardings in the Davao Gulf.

PCG Commodore Rejard V. Marfe commented on the training's impact, stating it demonstrated the strength of cooperation in addressing maritime threats and enhancing regional maritime sovereignty. USCG team lead Lieutenant Dana Schmitt also praised the course for fostering collaboration among participants.

Looking ahead, SEATT plans to organize similar training events through 2025, involving Philippine instructors and expanding partnerships across Southeast Asia to bolster maritime safety and security.