Revised Philippine Coast Guard Law

Senate Offire of the Secretary TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE MAY -6 P1:32 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session ) RECEIVED BY: SENATE p. S. No. 2116 (In substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 147, 359, 438, 910, 1142, 1217, and 1524) Prepared and submitted jointly by the Committees on Public Services; National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation; Civil Service, Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation; Ways and Means; and Finance with Senators Zubiri, Dela Rosa, Tulfo (R.), Estrada, Ejercito, Tulfo (E.), and Lapid as authors thereof AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE REVISED PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD LAW Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled: ARTICLE I GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Revised Philippine Coast

Guard Law."

Sec. 2. Philippine Coast Guard. - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), established

6 under Republic Act No. 9993, or the "Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009," as amended, shall continue as an armed and uniformed service attached to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) upon the effectivity of this Act: Provided, That in times of war, as 9 declared by Congress, the PCG or parts thereof, shall be attached to the Department of 10 National Defense (DND).

ARTICLE II ORGANIZATION, STRUCTURE, POWER, AND COMMAND

Sec. 3. Organization. - The PCG shall be headed by a Commandant holding the

rank of Admiral, assisted by the Deputy Commandant for Operations, and Deputy Commandant for Administration, both holding the rank of Vice Admiral. It shall be organized into the following major components: I. Core Functional Commands, which shall consist of: a) Maritime Safety Services Command; b) Marine Environmental Protection Command; and c) Maritime Security Law Enforcement Command. II. Support Commands and Service Units, which shall include: a) Administrative Support Commands; b) Operational Support Commands; c) Technical Services; d) Operating Commands; and e) Special Services.

Sec. 4. Support Commands and Service Units. - To enhance the core functions of

the PCG, the Support Commands and Service Units referred to in the preceding section shall be reinforced and organized as follows: a) Administrative Support Commands shall consist of: 1. Education, Training, and Doctrine Command; 2. Internal Affairs Service; 3. Financial Management Service; 4. Human Resource Management Command; and 5. Logistics System Command. b) Operational Support Commands shall consist of: 1. Fleet; 2. Weapons, Communications, Electronics, and Information System Command; 3. Special Operations Force;

4. Aviation Command; 5. Civil Relations Service; 6. Canine Force; 7. Intelligence Force; and 8. Other operational commands that may hereafter be created, if deemed necessary. c) Technical Services shall consist of: 1. Legal Service; 2. Medical Service; 3. Ecumenical Chaplain Service; 4. Dental Service; 5. Veterinary Service; 6. Medical Administrative Corps; 7. Nurse Corps; and 8. Other technical services that may hereafter be created, if deemed necessary. d) Operating Commands shall consist of the seventeen (17) districts located nationwide covering specific areas of responsibility composed of stations that shall have field offices called sub-stations down to detachments or posts. These Coast Guard Districts, which will also function as implementing units whose annual budget shall be directly released to them are: 1. National Capital Region-Central Luzon (CGDNCR-CL); 2. Central Visayas (CGDCV); 3. Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM); 4. Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM); 5. Palawan (CGDPAL); 6. Kalayaan Island Group (CGDKIG) 7. Western Visayas (CGDWV); 8. Southern Visayas (CGDSV); 9. Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL);

10. Northern Mindanao (CGDNM); 11. Bicol (CGDBCL); 12. Northwestern Luzon (CGDNWLZN); 13. Eastern Visayas (CGDEV); 14. Northeastern Luzon (CGDNELZN); 15. Southern Mindanao (CGDSM); 16. Northeastern Mindanao (CGDNEM); and 17. Coast Guard Districts in Bangsamoro Administrative Region in Muslim Mindanao (CGDs BARMM): Provided, That the PCG may create other new districts subject to existing laws. e) Special Services shall consist of: 1. Legislative Liaison Affairs; 2. Internal Audit; and 3. Strategic Studies and International Affairs Center. The Commandant is authorized to reorganize, modify, or create districts, commands, services, or units to enhance operational efficiency and command structure subject to the recommendation of the Secretary of Transportation and the approval of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations: Provided, That the minimum manning level of the PCG is sufficient to ensure effective, efficient and responsible delivery of its mandate and filled in accordance with the enlistment schedule approved by the DBM. The duties and functions assigned to the core functional commands, administrative support commands, operational support commands, operating commands, technical services, and special services shall include all duties and functions within their individual areas of responsibility, including tasks related to finance and procurement.

Sec. 5. Powers and Functions. - The PCG shall have the following powers and

functions: a) Enforce regulations in accordance with all relevant maritime international conventions, treaties or instruments and national laws for the promotion of safety of life and property at sea within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines and

conduct of port state control implementation; b) Conduct random inspections on all merchant ships and vessels, including inspections prior to departure, to ensure and enforce compliance with safety standards, rules and regulations; c) Detain, stop, or prevent a ship or vessel which does not comply with safety standards, rules and regulations from sailing or leaving port; d) Conduct emergency readiness evaluation on merchant marine vessels; e) Issue and enforce rules and regulations for the promotion of safety of life and property at sea on all maritime-related activities, subject to the approval of the Secretary of Transportation; f) Determine, fix or prescribe charges, rates, and penalties, as may be necessary, to implement the provisions of this Act, as well as the provisions of laws, issuances, decrees, and orders related to the implementation of PCG functions, subject to the approval of the Secretary of Transportation; g) Coordinate, develop, establish, maintain, and operate aids to navigation, vessel traffic system, maritime communications, and search and rescue facilities within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines; h) Remove, destroy, or tow to port sunken or floating hazards to navigation, including illegal fish traps and vessels, at or close to sea lanes which may cause hazards to the marine environment; i) Issue permits for the salvage of vessels, supervise all marine salvage operations and wreck removal, and auction the abandoned vessels or wrecks, the proceeds of which shall accrue to the PCG and be used, subject to existing budgeting, accounting, and auditing laws, to defray the expenses of removal of vessels, as well as prescribe and enforce rules and regulations governing the same; j) Render aid to persons and vessels in distress and conduct search and rescue during maritime accidents within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines, including the high seas, in accordance with applicable international conventions. In the performance of this function, the PCG may enlist the services of other government agencies and the merchant marine fleet;

k) Investigate and inquire into the causes of all maritime accidents involving death, casualties, and damage to properties; 1) Enforce and maintain maritime security, in coordination with other relevant government agencies, and prevent or suppress terrorism at sea, in accordance with pertinent laws, rules and regulations; m) Assist in the enforcement of laws on fisheries, immigration, tariff and customs, forestry, firearms and explosives, human trafficking, dangerous drugs and controlled chemicals, transnational crimes, and other applicable laws within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines; n) Board and inspect all types of merchant ships and watercrafts in the performance of these functions; o) Promulgate, administer, and enforce laws, rules and regulations for the protection of marine environment and resources from offshore sources of pollution within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines, including land-based source pollution affecting marine environment and inland waters in coordination with the local government units (LGUs); p) Develop oil spill response, containment and recovery capabilities against ship- based pollution; q) Grant, within its capabilities and consistent with its mandate, requests for assistance of other government agencies in the performance of their functions; r) Organize, train and supervise the PCG Auxiliary (PCGAux) for the purpose of assisting the PCG in carrying out its mandated functions; s) Recommend to the President of the Philippines the issuance of rules and regulations pertaining to the assistance and support that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) should extend to the PCG to enhance the latter's capability during emergencies; and t) Perform such other functions that may be necessary in the attainment of the objectives of this Act.

Sec. 6. The PCG Commandant. - The PCG shall be headed by a Commandant who

shall have the rank of Admiral: Provided, That the Commandant shall be appointed by

1 the President of the Philippines from among the Flag Officers in the Coast Guard service 2 holding the rank and position of Vice Admiral at the time of appointment. The Commandant shall have earned a command-at-sea badge and must have served as District Commander. The Commandant shall have a maximum term of three (3) years which shall commence on the date the appointment is signed, unless sooner terminated 6 by the President. The PCG Commandant shall be compulsorily retired upon completion of 7 the maximum term or upon relief by the President.

Sec. 7. Powers and Functions of the Commandant. - The Commandant shall

9 exercise the following powers and functions: a) Ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of national maritime laws within the jurisdiction of the PCG; b) Direct and control tactical as well as strategic movements, deployment, placement, or utilization of the PCG or any of its units and personnel, including its equipment, facilities and other resources: Provided, That the Commandant may delegate this power to subordinate officials with respect to the units under the latter's command, subject to the guidelines the Commandant may prescribe in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations; c) Organize, reorganize, and prescribe the functions and duties of the staff, services, installation, and other units of the agency in accordance with existing laws, rules or regulations; d) Issue policies and instructions regarding personnel, funds, properties, records, correspondence and such other matters as may be necessary to effectively carry out the functions, powers and duties of the PCG, in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations; e) Act on the recommendation of the different promotion or assignment boards and ensure observance of merit and fitness in the process of promotion and assignment in accordance with this Act, existing laws, rules and regulations; f) Exercise disciplinary authority over all uniformed personnel and non-uniformed personnel of the PCG; and g) Perform any task or directive issued by the President of the Philippines: Provided,

That the Commandant may delegate such command and direction to subordinate officials with respect to the units under their respective commands, subject to guidelines prescribed in accordance with existing laws, rules or regulations. ARTICLE III PERSONNEL CLASSIFICATION, RANKS, AND CAREER STRUCTURE

Sec. 8. Personnel. - The PCG shall consist of the following personnel classifications:

a) Officer refers to a uniformed member of the PCG commissioned as an officer by the President of the Philippines or the Secretary of Transportation, as the case may be, and belongs to the officers' corps; b) Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) refers to a uniformed member of the PCG with ranks below commissioned officers and performs functions specific to their occupational specialty, particularly those holding ranks with equivalent pay grades from E-4 to E-10; c) Enlisted Personnel refer to uniformed members of the PCG particularly those holding ranks with equivalent pay grades from E-1 to E-3; d) Non-uniformed personnel refer to permanent, temporary, contractual, coterminous, or casual civilian employees of the PCG whose appointments are governed by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) laws, rules and regulations; e) Probationary Ensign refers to a person called to active duty who is either awaiting commissionship or training in the PCG; f) Draftee refers to a person who has completed basic training and is awaiting enlistment into the PCG active service; g) Cadet refers to a person enrolled in service academies sponsored by the PCG; h) Candidate refers to a person undergoing training for commissionship; and i) Trainee refers to a person undergoing training to qualify as a member of the non- commissioned officer or enlisted personnel's corps of the PCG. The ranks and grades of all uniformed personnel in the PCG, whether officers, non-commissioned officers, or enlisted personnel, shall be equivalent to those used and observed in the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Sec. 9. Ranks and Grades of PCG Officers. - The ranks and grades of PCG Officers

shall be as follows: RANK ACRONYM PAY GRADE Admiral ADM 0-10 Vice Admiral VADM 0-9 Rear Admiral RADM 0-8 Commodore COMMO 0-7 Captain CAPT 0-6 Commander CDR 0-5 Lieutenant Commander LCDR 0-4 Lieutenant Senior Grade LT 0-3 Lieutenant Junior Grade LTJG 0-2 Ensign ENS 0-1

Sec. 10. Technical Officers. - The following professionals may join the PCG service

as technical officers: a) Lawyers; b) Doctors; c) Priests, pastors, imams, and other duly ordained or certified clerics; d) Dentists; e) Veterinarians; and f) Nurses Provided, That applicants belonging to the bar or board-regulated professions shall have qualified and passed the appropriate licensure examination as required by law as a condition for entry into the Coast Guard service: Provided, Further, That priests, pastors, imams, and other clerics shall be qualified on the basis of ordination or certification by a duly recognized religious organization or governing body: Provided, Finally, That board-regulated professions not listed may still be recruited as part of the technical team upon verification of the PCG of its need.

Sec. 11. Officer Rank Distribution. - The officer rank distribution of the PCG shall

be as follows: two percent (2%) in the Flag Officer rank; six percent (6%) in the rank of

1 Captain; twelve percent (12%) in the rank of Commander; eighteen percent (18%) in 2 the rank of Lieutenant Commander; twenty percent (20%) in the rank of Lieutenant 3 Senior Grade; and forty-two percent (42%) in the ranks of Lieutenant Junior Grade and Ensign: Provided, That such distribution is based on the ratio between officers, and non- commissioned officers and enlisted personnel, which is one (1) officer for every seven (7) non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel: Provided, Further, That if the actual number of officers in a rank is less than the number prescribed, the difference may be 8 applied as an increase to the number prescribed in the immediately lower rank.

Sec. 12. Distribution of Flag Officers. - Other than the Commandant who occupies

the rank of Admiral, the total number of flag officers shall not exceed two percent (2%) of the total officer population following the pyramidal structure as hereunder prescribed: Vice Admiral 0.15% Rear Admiral 0.35% Commodore 1.50% Total 2.00% Provided, That if the actual number of flag officers in a rank, except in the case of Admiral and Vice Admiral, is less than the number herein prescribed, the difference may be applied as an increase to the number prescribed in the immediately lower rank: Provided, Further, That no officer shall be promoted to the rank of Commodore or higher unless: a) there is an existing vacancy, in the rank to which the officer is being considered for promotion; and b) the officer is occupying a position in the approved Table of Organization that requires such rank.

Sec. 13. Maximum Tenure in Rank of Officers. - The maximum tenure of officers

in the ranks of Captain and Flag Officer is hereby prescribed as follows: Rank Maximum Tenure in Rank Admiral Three (3) years Vice Admiral Three (3) years Rear Admiral Three (3) years Commodore Five (5) years

Captain Ten (10) years Unless earlier separated, retired, promoted to the next higher rank or occupying a 3 position higher in rank in the PCG Table of Organization, Captains and Flag Officers shall be retired upon the attainment of the maximum tenure in rank herein prescribed, or upon reaching the age of compulsory retirement whichever comes earlier: Provided, That Captains or Flag Officers who have not reached the age of retirement shall be retired due to attrition if they have at least twenty (20) years in service, otherwise they shall be 8 separated from service.

Sec. 14. Ranks and Pay Grades of Non-Commissioned Officers and Enlisted

Personnel. - The ranks and pay grades of PCG non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel shall be as follows: RANK ACRONYM PAY GRADE First Master Chief Petty Officer FMCPO E-10 Master Chief Petty Officer МСРО E-9 Senior Chief Petty Officer SCPO E-8 Chief Petty Officer СРО E-7 Petty Officer First Class P01 E-6 Petty Officer Second Class PO2 E-5 Petty Officer Third Class РОЗ E-4 Seaman/Seawoman First Class SN1/SW1 E-3 Seaman/Seawoman Second Class SN2/SW2 E-2 Apprentice Seaman/Seawoman ASN/ASW E-1

Sec. 15. Maximum Tenure in Rank for Non-Commissioned Officers and Enlisted

Personnel. - The maximum tenure of non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel in the ranks of Chief Petty Officer to First Master Chief Petty Officer in the PCG are as follows: Rank Maximum Tenure in Rank First Master Chief Petty Officer Three (3) years Master Chief Petty Officer Five (5) years Senior Chief Petty Officer Eight (8) years

Chief Petty Officer Ten (10) years A non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel holding a rank of Petty Officer First Class or below and stays in the same rank for ten (10) years without being promoted shall be evaluated by the Re-enlistment Fitness Board. The Re-enlistment Fitness Board shall assess their suitability to continue in service and submit a recommendation for the approval of the Commandant. The original enlistment term in the PCG shall be three (3) years and subsequent re- enlistment shall be for the term of six (6) years, subject to review by the Re-enlistment 9 Fitness Board and approval by the Commandant.

Sec. 16. Non-uniformed Personnel. - There shall be non-uniformed personnel

positions in the PCG. The head of the non-uniformed personnel shall occupy a rank of Chief Administrative Officer and shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines upon recommendation of the Commandant. The Commandant shall determine the additional plantilla positions required subject to the evaluation and approval of the DBM in accordance with the CSC and other pertinent laws, rules and regulations. ARTICLE IV APPOINTMENTS, QUALIFICATIONS, PROMOTIONS, AND PERSONNEL POLICIES

Sec. 17. Appointments. - The appointment of the PCG Commandant and Flag

Officers shall be approved by the President of the Philippines upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Transportation. Appointments of all PCG non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel shall be made by the PCG Commandant. Appointments of PCG officers, which shall be in the initial rank of Coast Guard Ensign, shall be through a commissionship into service by the Secretary of Transportation upon the recommendation of the Commandant. The initial entry ranks for technical officers such as lawyers, medical doctors and ecumenical clerics shall be Lieutenant Senior Grade; dentists and veterinarians shall be Lieutenant Junior Grade; while nurses shall be commissioned to the rank of Ensign. Appointment of other technical professions that may be required subsequently shall be

1 based on the academic attainment or ranking of licensure examination results issued by 2 competent authority. Appointments and promotions of all non-uniformed personnel shall be in accordance 4 with CSC laws, rules and regulations.

Sec. 18. Basic Qualifications for Uniformed Personnel. - To qualify as an officer,

6 non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel of the PCG, the applicant shall possess 7 the following qualifications at the time of application: a) A natural born citizen of the Philippines; b) A person of good moral character; c) Has passed the psychiatric, psychological, drug and physical tests to be administered by the PCG Medical Service or by any PCG-accredited government hospital; d) Has a formal baccalaureate degree, with the appropriate license, when applicable, or professional civil service eligibility for appointment as an officer, and must have completed at least seventy-two (72) non-repetitive units of college education or is a senior high school graduate with appropriate National Certificate (NC) II from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) skills course related to the functions of the PCG for appointment as non- commissioned officers or enlisted personnel upon effectivity of this Act; and e) Has not been dishonorably discharged from military employment or dismissed from any non-uniformed personnel position in the government.

Sec. 19. Promotions of Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Enlisted

Personnel. - The promotion of PCG officers, non-commissioned officers, and enlisted personnel shall be based on merit and fitness in accordance with the following procedures: a) Officers shall only be promoted after undergoing deliberation before the promotion boards: Provided, That the promotion boards shall submit the results of their deliberation to the Commandant for approval and corresponding endorsement to the Secretary of Transportation for transmittal to the President of the Philippines for approval; and

b) There shall also be appropriate promotion boards for non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel whose recommendation shall be submitted to the Commandant for approval: Provided, That at the time of promotion, the officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel concerned shall possess all the qualifications and none of the disqualifications provided under pertinent laws, rules and regulations, specifically on the completion of required career course, training, examination and minimum time-in-grade for specific ranks: Provided, Further, That except for the position of Commandant, no other officer shall be promoted, assigned or designated to the rank of Commodore or higher if the officer has less than one (1) year of active service remaining prior to compulsory retirement.

Sec. 20. Lateral Entry. - Active members of other uniformed services under the

AFP, PNP, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the Hydrography Branch of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) may join the PCG through lateral entry. The rank for officers eligible for such entry must not be higher than Lieutenant Commander and Petty Officer Second Class for non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel. Notwithstanding the corps they wish to join, all entrants shall only be accepted if, on or before the time of entry, they are: a) not under investigation; b) not on AWOL status; c) not serving sentence, whether administrative or criminal; d) have not been issued reprimand in the last two (2) years; and/or e) have not received an unfavorable rating in the latest performance rating. However, if an entrant possesses specific skills that may not be readily developed in new recruits, lateral entry may be allowed for ranks higher than those mentioned above: Provided, That the new entrant can serve for at least ten (10) years in PCG active service prior to reaching the mandatory retirement age.

Sec. 21. Gender Mainstreaming and Non-Discrimination. - The PCG shall adopt and

implement gender-responsive policies, plans, and programs in accordance with Republic Act No. 9710, or the "Magna Carta of Women", ensuring meaningful participation of women at all levels of command and service. The PCG shall prevent and address gender-

based violence within the organization, integrate gender perspectives into operations and 2 training, and maintain a safe, inclusive, and enabling environment for all personnel and 3 stakeholders regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. ARTICLE V INSIGNIA, AWARDS, AND SPECIAL AUTHORITIES

Sec. 22. PCG Insignia, Decorations, and Awards System. - The PCG shall have its

own insignia and badges to denote rank, specialty, and assignment, including uniforms, decorations, incentives, and awards, all of which shall be submitted to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) for registration in the flags and heraldic list, as applicable. There is hereby established an incentives and awards system for the PCG which shall be the same and equal to that used and observed in the AFP and the PNP, including the Medalya ng Kagitingan (Medal of Valor). Said system shall be administered by a PCG Awards Board to be created for the purpose, under such rules, regulations, and standards as may be promulgated by the PCG and approved by the Secretary of Transportation. Equivalent awards shall be given by the PCG for every award duly given by respectable civic organizations in a nationwide selection for outstanding achievement or performance of any member: Provided, That the necessary appropriations therefor shall be charged against the funds of the PCG: Provided, Further, That in the case of non- uniformed personnel, the incentives and awards system shall be subject to, and in accordance with CSC laws, rules and regulations.

Sec. 23. Power to Administer Oath. - Officers of the PCG in the active service

holding a pay grade of 0-5 or higher or who are designated by appropriate orders as administrative officers of a unit, shall have the authority to administer oaths in matters connected with the performance of their official duties. Senior non-commissioned officers holding pay grades E-7 to E10, who are designated through appropriate orders, as Chief- Master-At-Arms (CMAA) or Unit Master Chief, are also authorized to administer oaths in matters connected with the performance of their duties.

Sec. 24. Maritime and Coast Guard Attaché. - Subject to existing laws, rules, and

regulations, the PCG may designate a maritime and coast guard attaché who shall be uniformed personnel of the PCG. The attaché may be assigned to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), other international institutions, or to diplomatic missions or embassies, upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Transportation. The assignment or deployment of the maritime or coast guard attaché shall be 7 subject to the prior approval of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. ARTICLE VI EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Sec. 25. Philippine Coast Guard Academy (PCGA). - An institution known as the

PCGA shall be established for the training of selected candidates for permanent commission as officers in the Philippine Coast Guard Corps of Officers. In the design of the academy's academic and physical curriculum under strict military approach discipline, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) shall allocate ten percent (10%) of its cadets to the PCG to maintain and enhance interoperability and relationship among the corps of officers of both agencies. The PCGA shall be organized within five (5) years from the effectivity of this Act to allow for the planning, programming, and allocation of the necessary resources, and shall be administered by the PCG Commandant, under the general supervision and control of the Secretary of Transportation. The PCGA shall develop and conduct comprehensive academic, military, and specialized training programs under such standards, rules, and regulations as may be prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation, with the end in view of professionalizing and strengthening the corps of officers and uniformed personnel of the PCG. Subject to existing laws, rules, and regulations, the Philippine Coast Guard may accept donations of land, buildings, equipment, and other properties for the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the PCGA.

Sec. 26. Corps of Professors. - The PCGA faculty shall be composed of the

Philippine Coast Guard Uniformed Personnel who are permanently assigned to the PCGA.

1 The qualifications for admission to the Corps of Professors shall be determined by the 2 PCGA Council. The same shall be headed by a Dean who shall be selected by the PCGA 3 Council from among the members of the Corps of Professors. A separate career pattern shall be promulgated by the PCG Organization for the 5 professional advancement and promotion of the members of the Corps of Professors 6 within three (3) months from the effectivity of this Act. ARTICLE VII COMPENSATION, ALLOWANCES, AND OTHER BENEFITS

Sec. 27. Salaries and Other Benefits. - The uniformed personnel of the PCG shall

receive the same base pay, hazard pay, and other benefits and allowances authorized for corresponding salary grades and ranks in the AFP: Provided, That, the Admiral and Vice Admiral shall receive the same base pay authorized for corresponding salary grades and ranks of General and Lieutenant General, respectively, in the AFP. Non-uniformed PCG personnel shall receive salaries and allowances in accordance with existing Salary Standardization Law, CSC laws, rules and regulations.

Sec. 28. Longevity Pay and Allowances. - Uniformed personnel of the PCG shall be

entitled to a longevity pay of ten percent (10%) of their basic monthly salaries for every five (5) years of continuous active service, which shall be reckoned from the date of actual service in the PCG: Provided, That the total shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) 20 of their basic pay. They shall continue to receive the subsistence allowance, quarters allowance, clothing allowance, cost of living allowance, hazardous duty pay, and other collateral allowances, but not limited to, sea duty pay, flying pay, lawyer's incentive pay (LIP), occupational specialty pay, instructor's duty pay, combat pay for officers and non- commissioned officers and enlisted personnel of the PCG performing combat duties or activities, or engaged in actual performance of duties as defined in regulations to be issued by the Commandant, and all other allowances provided under existing laws. The grant of collateral allowances shall be subject to the review of the DBM and the approval of the President of the Philippines. The PCG shall issue the necessary policies

1 and guidelines governing the grant thereof, consistent with existing laws, rules, and 2 regulations.

Sec. 29. Lawyer's Incentive Pay (LIP). - The legal officers duly authorized to handle,

litigate, and appear for the PCG personnel herein shall be entitled to LIP which shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of their base pay. Such incentive pay shall be reflected in the pay slip of the legal officer for the duration of the case in court. There shall be a prosecution and litigation unit to handle and monitor all cases filed for or against the PCG 8 or its personnel in relation to the performance of PCG functions. Legal officers assigned 9 therein shall automatically be entitled to LIP.

Sec. 30. Uniformed Personnel Missing in Action. - An officer, non-commissioned

officer or enlisted personnel in active service who is officially confirmed missing, missing in action, or captured by lawless elements shall continue to receive, or have credited to their account or paid to their qualified dependents or beneficiaries on the member's behalf, the pay and allowances due from the time of disappearance. In applicable cases, their compulsory retirement shall be processed to allow payment 16 of retirement benefits: Provided, That should the Commandant, upon the recommendation of the proper authority or immediate supervisor, determines that the absence was without authority, the officer, non-commissioned officer, or enlisted personnel or their dependents or beneficiaries shall reimburse the PCG all pay and allowances received under this section.

Sec. 31. Emergency Medical Assistance. - The PCG shall provide its uniformed

personnel emergency medical assistance in areas not serviceable by the PCG Hospital, for the hospitalization, operation, medication, and rehabilitation of personnel with injuries or illnesses suffered while in the performance of duty. The fund shall be sourced from the PCG's Annual Budget Plan as reflected in the General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Sec. 32. Active Service. - For purposes of this Act, active service of the uniformed

personnel shall refer to services rendered as an officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel, cadet, trainee, or draftee in the PCG and services rendered as a non- uniformed personnel in the Philippine Government prior to the date of separation or retirement from the PCG: Provided, That, for purposes of retirement, the personnel shall

1 have rendered at least ten (10) years of active service as officer, non-commissioned 2 officer or enlisted personnel in the PCG: Provided, Further, That this provision shall apply to personnel that joined the PCG after the effectivity of this Act: Provided, Finally, That no period of such non-uniformed personnel's government service longer than the active coast guard service shall be credited for purposes of retirement. Service rendered as cadet in any service academy in the Philippines or abroad under the sponsorship of the PCG such as the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA), probationary officer, draftee, or trainee shall be included in computing the years in active service for retirement 9 purposes if such personnel join the service right after graduation. ARTICLE VIII RETIREMENT, SEPARATION, AND DISABILITY BENEFITS

Sec. 33. Retirement. - Upon reaching fifty-seven (57) years of age or after

accumulating thirty (30) years of continuous satisfactory active service, whichever comes later, a PCG uniformed personnel shall be compulsorily retired: Provided, That technical officers may extend their tenure of service up to sixty (60) years old or until having accumulated twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service, whichever comes later: Provided, Further, That the Commandant shall be compulsorily retired upon the completion of the tour of duty as provided under Section 6 of this Act or upon relief by the President of the Philippines. Any officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel may choose to retire on their own option upon accumulating at least twenty (20) years in active service. For purposes of this Act, an officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel who dies after having accumulated at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service shall be considered retired. The retirement of non-uniformed personnel of the PCG shall be governed by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) law, rules and regulations.

Sec. 34. Separation and Separation Pay. - The separation from the PCG service

and the corresponding separation pay shall be governed by the following:

a) Modes of Separation - Separation from the Coast Guard service may be done through compulsory retirement, optional retirement upon reaching twenty (20) years in service, disability discharge, expiration of enlistment term, voluntary resignation, attrition, dismissal for cause, or death. The separation of non- uniformed personnel of the PCG shall be governed by the CSC law, rules and regulations. b) Separation Pay for Uniformed Personnel - Officers and non-commissioned officers or enlisted personnel who are separated from the PCG without having accumulated at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service, or their qualified survivors, shall be entitled to separation pay equivalent to one (1) month base pay plus longevity pay for every year of active service, computed based on the permanent salary grade held at the time of separation: Provided, That in the case of an officer in the grade of Captain or higher who incurs physical disability in the line of duty, the basis of the separation pay shall be one (1) salary grade higher than that held at the time of separation: Provided, Further, That cadets, candidates, trainees, or draftees who voluntarily resign from the service shall not be entitled to any separation pay. c) Separation Pay for Non-Uniformed Personnel - The separation benefits of non- uniformed personnel of the PCG shall be governed by applicable CSC laws and regulations, and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Law.

Sec. 35. Attrition. - Within one (1) year from the effectivity of this Act, a system

of attrition for the uniformed members of the PCG shall be established and submitted by the PCG to the President of the Philippines for approval.

Sec. 36. Retirement Benefits. - An officer or uniformed personnel who is retired

under Section 33 of this Act, or the retiree's qualified survivors, are entitled to receive, and may choose from any of the following benefits: a. Gratuity Pay. - A lump sum payment of gratuity pay equivalent to one (1) month of base and longevity pay computed based on one (1) rank higher than the rank last held for every year of service; or

b. Retirement Pay. - A monthly retirement pay equivalent to fifty percent (50%) of the monthly base and longevity pay computed based on one (1) grade higher than the permanent salary grade last held by the personnel in case of twenty (20) years of active service, increasing by two and one-half percent (2.5%) for every year of service rendered beyond twenty (20) years up to a maximum of ninety percent (90%) for thirty-six (36) years of active service and over: Provided, That non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel who attain the rank of Chief Petty Officer, Senior Chief Petty Officer and Master Chief Petty Officer shall, upon retirement, be entitled to the retirement pay and benefits of an Ensign: Provided, Further, That a Master Chief Petty Officer shall receive a gratuity equivalent to that of an Ensign, plus one-half (1/2) of the difference between the gratuity of an Ensign and a Chief Petty Officer, and a Senior Chief Petty Officer shall receive a gratuity equivalent to that of an Ensign, plus one-half (1/2) of the difference between the gratuity of a Master Chief Petty Officer and a Chief Petty Officer, while a First Master Chief Petty Officer shall be retired with the rank of Ensign but with the retirement pay and benefits of a Lieutenant Junior Grade (O-2), as provided for in existing laws: Provided, Finally, That, upon retirement, officers and non-commissioned officers are entitled to receive monthly retirement pay upon retirement, or may opt to receive a lump sum equal to thirty-six (36) months of the monthly retirement pay and three (3) years thereafter shall receive an annual retirement pay payable in equal monthly installments as they accrue. The retirement pay of officers, non-commissioned officers or enlisted personnel who are killed in action or wounded in action resulting in total permanent disability shall be computed at the rate of ninety percent (90%) of the monthly base and longevity pay based on one rank higher than the rank last held by the personnel regardless of years in active service. The retirement pay of all PCG uniformed personnel retirees shall be subject to adjustment on the prevailing scale of base pay of uniformed personnel in the active service.

The retirement benefits of non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by applicable 2 CSC laws and regulations and the GSIS Law.

Sec. 37. Benefits for Death and Total Permanent Disability in the Line of Duty or

During Training. - Qualified survivors of officers, non-commissioned officers or enlisted personnel, including cadets, candidates, trainees and draftees who died in the line of duty without having accumulated at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service are entitled to a monthly life annuity, equivalent to fifty percent (50%) of the base and longevity pay computed based on one (1) rank higher than the rank last held by the 9 deceased officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel at the time of death: 10 Provided, That survivors of cadets, candidates, trainees, and draftees who died during training through their own fault or negligence shall not be entitled to this benefit. Officers, non-commissioned officers, and enlisted personnel, including cadets, candidates, trainees, and draftees who suffer total permanent physical disability in the line of duty or during training without having accumulated at least twenty (20) years of satisfactory active service shall be entitled to a monthly life annuity, equivalent to fifty percent (50%) of the base and longevity pay computed based on one (1) rank higher than the rank last held by the officer, non-commissioned officer, or enlisted personnel when the disability occurred: Provided, That the extent of the disability or sickness which renders such member unfit or unable to further perform the duties of the position held shall be certified by an authorized government hospital: Provided, Further, That cadets, candidates, trainees and draftees who suffer total permanent physical disability during training through their own fault or negligence shall not be entitled to this benefit. The death and disability benefits of non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by applicable CSC laws and regulations and the GSIS Law.

Sec. 38. Qualified Survivors and Survivorship Benefits of Deceased Uniformed

Personnel. - The family of deceased officers, non-commissioned officers or enlisted personnel who are alive may claim benefits after such uniformed personnel dies in line of duty or when the pensioner dies. The following shall be considered qualified survivors: a) Surviving spouse if married to the deceased prior to the latter's retirement or separation and not legally separated by judicial decree from the deceased

issued on grounds not attributable to said spouse: Provided, That the spouse's entitlement of benefits shall terminate when the spouse dies, remarries, cohabits, or engages in a common-law relationship; b) Surviving children of officers, non-commissioned officers, or enlisted personnel born of marriage contracted prior to retirement or separation from the service, surviving children adopted legally prior to retirement or separation, illegitimate children born while the deceased parent was still on active service: Provided, That entitlement to benefits shall terminate when such children attain twenty- one (21) years of age or upon marriage: Provided, Further, That those who have reached the age of twenty-one (21) years but are incapacitated and incapable of self-support due to a mental or physical defect acquired prior to age of majority shall remain entitled to the benefits; and c) In default of those mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b), the surviving parent or parents. As regards the question of filiation involving survivor-claimants, the same shall be submitted first by the claimants to a competent court for determination before benefits may be granted. The qualified survivors shall be entitled to a monthly annuity equivalent to seventy- five percent (75%) of the officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel's retirement or separation benefits, to be divided among them in equal shares and with the right of accretion. Survivorship benefits for non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by the GSIS Law.

Sec. 39. Disability Pension. - In addition to the other benefits under this Act, an

officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel who is retired or separated by reason of disability, which is the proximate result of wounds or injuries sustained or sickness or disease acquired in the line of duty shall receive a monthly disability pension as follows: a) If and while the disability is rated from ten to thirty percent (10%-30%), the monthly pension shall be Four thousand five hundred pesos (P4,500.00);

b) If and while the disability is rated from thirty-one to forty percent (31%-40%), the monthly pension shall be Five thousand three hundred pesos (P5,300.00); c) If and while the disability is rated from forty-one to fifty percent (41%-50%), the monthly pension shall be Six thousand one hundred pesos (P6,100.00); d) If and while the disability is rated from fifty-one to sixty percent (51%-60%), the monthly pension shall be Six thousand nine hundred pesos (P6,900.00); e) If and while the disability is rated from sixty-one to seventy percent (61%- 70%), the monthly pension shall be Seven thousand seven hundred pesos (P7,700.00); f) If and while the disability is rated from seventy-one to eighty percent (71%- 80%), the monthly pension shall be Eight thousand five hundred pesos (P8,500.00); g) If and while the disability is rated from eighty-one to ninety percent (81%- 90%), the monthly pension shall be Nine thousand three hundred pesos (P9,300.00); h) If and while the disability is rated from ninety-one to one hundred percent (91%-100%), the monthly pension shall be Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00), plus One thousand pesos (P1,000.00) for the spouse and each unmarried minor child: Provided, That an officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel, upon reaching the age of seventy (70) and not receiving disability pension under this Act, is deemed totally disabled and shall be entitled to a monthly pension of One thousand seven hundred pesos (P1,700.00) only: Provided, Further, That the officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel receiving the benefits under this Section may be required to undergo periodic physical and medical examination to determine the extent of disability for purposes of adjusting the disability pension.

Sec. 40. Old-Age Pension. - A retired PCG uniformed personnel who is at least

sixty-five (65) years of age shall be entitled to an old-age pension amounting to Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) monthly and an additional amount of One thousand seven hundred pesos (P1,700.00) monthly upon reaching the age of seventy (70): Provided,

1 That only retired PCG uniformed personnel who shall have been honorably discharged or retired after at least twenty (20) years total PCG active service or sooner separated while in the active service in the PCG due to disability arising or incurred in actual operations or performance of duties are entitled to receive this monthly benefit.

Sec. 41. Application of Related Laws on Retirement and Separation of Uniformed

6 Personnel. - The retirement system under Presidential Decree No. 1638, as amended, and the provisions of Republic Act No. 8220, Republic Act No. 9365, and other applicable laws, insofar as they are not inconsistent with the applicable provisions of this Act, shall 9 be given suppletory effect.

Sec. 42. Adjustment of Retirement Benefits and Pension Indexation. - The

retirement benefits of personnel affected by the implementation of Republic Act No. 9993, as amended, Executive Order No. 107, s. 2025, Joint Resolution No. 4, s. 2009, and Joint Resolution No. 1 s. 2018, shall be adjusted as follows: a) For non-commissioned officers whose retirement benefits were affected by the implementation of Republic Act No. 9993, as amended, any discrepancies resulting from the application of this Act and Republic Act No. 9993, as amended, shall be returned to the retiree. This adjustment shall also apply to the indexation of pensions to base pay scale adjustments affected by Republic Act No. 9993, as amended; and b) The retirement benefits of personnel holding the ranks of admiral and vice admiral, who were adversely affected by Joint Resolution No. 4, s. 2009, entitled: "Joint Resolution Authorizing the President of the Philippines to Modify the Compensation and Position Classification System of Civilian Personnel and the Base Pay Schedule of Military and Uniformed Personnel in the Government, and for Other Purposes," Joint Resolution No. 1 s. 2018, entitled: "Joint Resolution Authorizing the Increase in Base Pay of Military and Uniformed Personnel in the Government, and for Other Purposes", and Executive Order No. 107, s. 2025, entitled: "Updating the Base Pay Schedule and Increasing the Subsistence Allowance of the Military and Uniformed Personnel", shall be adjusted to align

with the benefits of their contemporary ranks of General and Lieutenant General in the AFP and the PNP. Personnel affected by the aforementioned joint resolutions shall be paid the corresponding difference in pay and allowances resulting from these adjustments. ARTICLE IX DISCIPLINE, INTERNAL GOVERNANCE, AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Sec. 43. Disciplinary System. - The PCG shall adopt the PCG Code of Conduct

which shall be applicable to all its uniformed personnel while non-uniformed personnel 9 shall be covered under the disciplinary rules of the CSC. The Commandant shall be assisted by the Coast Guard Internal Affairs Service in enforcing discipline and order within its ranks, though for disciplinary issues, depending on gravity, unit commanders shall exercise disciplinary powers over personnel under their command. The PCG shall, within six (6) months from the effectivity of this Act, issue policies, rules and procedures applying the PCG Code of Conduct: Provided, That for non-uniformed personnel, the PCG shall issue rules and procedures implementing Book VII of Executive Order No. 292 and applicable CSC laws, administrative rules, and issuances: Provided, Further, That in times of war, during which the PCG or any of its offices is attached to the DND, the military justice system of the AFP shall apply.

Sec. 44. Disciplinary Authority. - The Commandant shall exercise disciplinary

authority at any time over all personnel of the PCG. The authority to discipline shall also be exercised by Unit Commanders and Commanding Officers, including Station Commanders, Sub-Station Commanders, and head of Morning Report Carrying Units.

Sec. 45. Jurisdiction. - A complaint or a charge filed against a PCG member shall

be heard and decided exclusively by the disciplining authority who has acquired original jurisdiction over the case, notwithstanding the existence of concurrent jurisdiction as regards the offense.

Sec. 46. Removal or Dismissal of PCG Personnel. - The Commandant, after due

notice and summary hearing, may immediately remove or dismiss any respondent PCG

1 personnel, and major unit commanders may recommend the removal or dismissal in any 2 of the following cases: a) In cases of drug abuse where a subsequent confirmation test confirms the use of prohibited drugs; b) When the charge is serious and the evidence of guilt is strong; c) When the respondent is a recidivist or has been repeatedly charged and there are reasonable grounds to believe that the respondent is guilty of the charges; and d) When the respondent is guilty of a serious offense involving conduct unbecoming of a PCG personnel. An officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel who is continuously absent without approved leave for at least thirty (30) calendar days shall be considered on absence without official leave (AWOL) and shall be presumed voluntarily resigned: Provided, That such officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel shall be informed, by registered mail, at the address appearing in the officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel's official records not later than five (5) calendar days from the effectivity thereof. The dismissal of a PCG non-uniformed personnel shall be governed by CSC laws, rules and regulations.

Sec. 47. Coast Guard Inspector General and the Coast Guard Internal Affairs

Service (CGIG-IAS). - There shall be an Internal Affairs Service which shall be headed by an Inspector General. The CGIG-IAS shall foster and promote accountability in government service within the PCG and follow the basic principles of integrity, objectivity, independence, confidentiality, professionalism, competence, courage, trust, honesty, fairness, forthrightness, public accountability, and respect for others and themselves. It shall have the power to investigate and inquire into any and all activities of the PCG units and personnel, review processes, procedures and operations to determine if such were conducted effectively and efficiently. The personnel of the CGIG-IAS, whether officer, non-commissioned officer or enlisted personnel who are performing actual investigative duties, including PCG

1 personnel who perform investigative duties, shall be granted occupational specialty pay 2 which shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of their basic pay and shall be reflected in 3 their pay slip for the work performed: Provided, That such personnel shall not be entitled 4 to the occupational specialty pay under Section 28 hereof. ARTICLE X RESERVE COMPONENTS AND PCG AUXILIARY

Sec. 48. Coast Guard Reserve Force. - In accordance with existing laws, rules and

regulations, and the exercise of its powers and functions under Section 5 of this Act, the PCG may establish a reserve force to augment the PCG force in the event of a national emergency or disaster, consistent with existing laws, rules and regulations. The PCG reservist shall undergo regular training and shall be organized, trained, equipped, and administered by a PCG Reserve Command under the direction of the Commandant and whose members may be called to active duty in the exigency of the service. The PCG shall adopt pertinent policies and guidelines for the purpose subject to the approval of the President upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Transportation.

Sec. 49. Organization of a PCG Auxiliary (PCGAux). - The PCG shall continue to

maintain, supervise, develop, and train the PCGAux as a non-uniformed personnel volunteer organization under the direct control and supervision of the PCG Commandant. 19 The PCGAux shall assist the PCG in the promotion of safety of life and property at sea, the preservation of the marine environment and its resources, the conduct of maritime search and rescue, the maintenance of aids to navigation, and such other activities that enhance maritime community relations which include civic action, participation under the National Service Training Program, youth development, recreational safety, and other related activities.

ARTICLE XI FISCAL PRIVILEGES, EXEMPTIONS, AND FINANCIAL AUTHORITY

Sec. 50. Exemption from Attachment, Taxes, Charges and Fees. -

a) Retirement Benefits. - Retirement benefits granted under this Act, including benefits received from a duly instituted provident fund and mutual benefit association, shall enjoy the same tax treatment and exemptions as those granted to the AFP and PNP and other uniformed services under existing laws. For this purpose, such benefits shall not be subject to attachment, levy, or execution, unless otherwise provided, and subject to the pertinent provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended. b) Importation. - The Tax Expenditure Subsidy (TES) shall be utilized for the payment of national internal revenue taxes and customs duties on the importation of instruments, equipment, machinery, spare parts, and apparatuses of the PCG. c) Regulatory Fees. - In the establishment and operation of radar and radio stations and other communication facilities, the PCG shall not be subject to payment of charges and fees as imposed by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC): Provided, That the PCG shall only use frequencies as may be allowed or assigned by the NTC consistent with international regulations and guidelines. d) Other Government Fees. - The PCG is exempt from regulatory fees and charges imposed by national government agencies, instrumentalities, and government- owned or controlled corporations for acts performed in the discharge of its official law enforcement, maritime safety, maritime security, marine environmental protection, and search-and-rescue mandate. The exemption does not apply when the PCG acts in a proprietary, commercial, or administrative capacity.

Sec. 51. Loans, Grants, Bequests, and Donations. - The PCG may receive grants,

bequests, and donations and enter into loan agreements, whether from local or foreign sources for purposes relevant to its functions, subject to the provisions on donations and loans under the annual GAA and other pertinent laws, rules, and regulations.

The PCG may enter into a loan agreement with foreign financial institutions, subject to the provisions on loan agreements under the annual GAA and other pertinent 3 laws, rules, and regulations. ARTICLE XII PROPERTIES, ASSETS, AND CAPABILITY DEVELOPMENT

Sec. 52. PCG Properties and Lighthouse Reservations. - The PCG shall continue to

exercise exclusive ownership, possession, management, control and supervision over all 8 properties transferred to it by virtue of Executive Order No. 475 dated 30 March 1998, as amended by Executive Order No. 477 dated 15 April 1998, including, but not limited to vessels, watercrafts, firearms, armaments, munitions, communications and electronic equipment, vehicles, buildings, real state, lighthouse stations and reservations.

Sec. 53. Establishment, Upgrading, Rehabilitation and Expansion of Coast Guard

Bases, Equipment and Facilities. - The PCG, in coordination with other appropriate government agencies, shall develop and enhance its capabilities in the performance of its mandated functions and establish its strategic presence. To this end, the PCG shall, through the guidance of Congress, draft its development plan that shall reflect its asset, equipment and facility requirement that includes, but is not limited to, floating assets, laboratories, land-based support facilities, land mobility, arms and ammunition, rescue and hospital ship, maritime monitoring surveillance and communications system, port facilities, air assets, and air stations. ARTICLE XIII FINAL PROVISIONS

Sec. 54. Status of Appointments and Promotions. - All previous appointments and

promotions of PCG uniformed personnel made prior to the enactment of this Act shall remain valid and subsisting.

Sec. 55. Appropriations. - The amount necessary for the initial implementation of

this Act shall be charged against the current year's appropriations of the PCG. Thereafter,

1 such amount necessary for the continued implementation of this Act shall be included in 2 the annual GAA.

Sec. 56. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The PCG, in consultation with the

DOTr, shall within one hundred twenty (120) days from the effectivity of this Act, promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to effectively implement the provisions 6 of this Act.

Sec. 57. Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is declared

unconstitutional, the remainder hereof not otherwise affected shall remain in full force 9 and effect.

Sec. 58. Repealing Clause. - Republic Act No. 9993, or the "Philippine Coast Guard

Law of 2009," as amended, is hereby repealed. All other laws, presidential decrees, executive orders, letters of instruction, proclamations, administrative orders, rules or regulations that are inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.

Sec. 59. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its

publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. Approved,