Eastmincom Border Patrol Contingent brought home Filipino Repatriates

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - Eastern Mindanao Command's contingent in the recently concluded second leg of this year's Philippine- Indonesian Coordinated Patrol brought home 10 Filipino repatriates from Manado Indonesia during their arrival at Sasa Wharf, Panacan, Davao City noon of July 27, 2019.

The Filipino repatriates mostly from General Santos City were arrested by Indonesian authorities for illegal entry and illegal fishing in the waters of Indonesia were released with the effort of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Liason in Manado, Indonesia. They were received by Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander, Eastern Mindanao Command and Hon. Uriel Norman Garibay of Department of Foreign Affairs-Mindanao during a welcome and Arrival Ceremony after the berthing of BRP EMILIO JACINTO.

They were subsequently handed over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development for processing and assistance prior to their return to their communities.

Meanwhile the 2nd Leg of the Border Coordinated Patrol, which is part of the continuing effort of both countries through the RP-RI Border Committee of securing the common border, curtail maritime crimes and stop sea crimes including smuggling and piracy was conducted from July 17-23 and culminated at Manado Indonesia on July 24, 2019, along the Celebes Sea.

It can be recalled that the Philippines and the Republic of Indonesia have increased this year’s coordinated border patrol activities wherein the first leg was held on the first week of May 2019.

The increase of patrols is also aimed at improving the interoperability and capability of ensuring a safe and secure common maritime border of both countries.

The coordinated patrol between the two countries started in 1975 when the Philippines and Indonesia signed the Border Patrol and Border Crossing Agreements, aimed at improving maritime security cooperation.

"The coordinated naval operations we are conducting strengthens our relationship with Indonesia, boost our security effort and provides both countries the opportunity to develop interoperability and strengthens cooperation in securing the border," Lt. Gen. Santos Jr., said.

Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command