Japanese embassy donates X-ray machine to PCG

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard will now be able to minimize risking lives or limbs of PCG personnel in determining if a package contains explosives by using the mobile X-ray machine donated by the Japanese embassy. 

PCG spokesman Capt. Armand Balilo said yesterday the X-ray machine would allow them to easily check the contents of a package.

“It will be a big help for personnel of the Explosive Ordnance Division and our K9 dogs,” Balilo said.

“PCG personnel could examine the contents of a package even from a distance of about 20 meters,” he added.

The equipment will help boost the PCG’s anti-terrorism campaign, according to Balilo.

The PCG also received from the Japanese embassy a patrol boat that can travel at a speed of 29 knots and can carry 14 passengers.

Balilo said the boat would be deployed to Mindanao to help in the operations against poachers and intruders in the country’s maritime territory.

PCG Commandant Vice Admiral Joel Garcia thanked Japan Ministry of Economic Affairs Minister Masahiro Nakata for the donation.

Nakata said Japan hopes to further strengthen its relations with the Philippines.