Coast Guard Officers' Basic Education and Training Center

PCG-CGOBETC: As part of the preparation for the marksmanship training, the members of the Coast Guard Officers’ Course “SINAGILAS” Class 19-2015 and CGOC “ALAB-MAGAT” Class 20-2015 underwent a two-day Practical Shooting and Practical Pistol Course-Level 1 with LCDR MARK V FUCANAN PCGA, Gun Safety Lecturer, Range Safety Officer and Chief of Staff for Coast Guard Auxiliary Operations (CGA-3) assisted by ENS HERICO M MA**CA PCGA and ENS CHRISTIAN M PERILLA PCGA as guest instructors last 09-10 August 2016 at NPC Village Firing Range, Bagac, Bataan.

PCG-CGOBETC: This year’s Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Silent Drill Company composed of Candidate Coast Guard Officers (CCGOs) gave pride to the organization through another exemplary performance recently as they showcased their precision of movements during their silent drill performance before hundreds of local and foreign spectators who joined the country’s celebration of the 118th anniversary of its Independence at Quirino Grandstand, Manila last 12 June 2016.

The said company is composed of a total of 45 CCGOs from Coast Guard Officers’ Course (CGOC) “Sinagilas” Class 19-2015 and CGOC “Alab-Magat” Class 20-2015.

The group received an overwhelming response from the crowd as they start to parade and execute a series of drills with precise handling of M-14 rifle.

The drill was even breathtaking as the company staff headed by CCGO EDWARD Y CUA PCG (Company Commander), CCGO HARVY A BENBINEN PCG (Executive Officer) and CCGO ELEAZAR B YAOS PCG (Guidon Bearer) (members of CGOC Class 20-2015); and CCGO EDRIAN N TABARANGAO PCG (First Platoon Leader) and CCGO GERALD L CORDERO PCG (Second Platoon Leader) who performed with a unique rifle inspection; intricate rifle, sword and guidon exhibition.

The PCG has been participating this event annually and has been presenting their silent drill performance since 2014.

PCG volunteers extend aid in Brigada Eskwela 2016 in Bataan

PCG-CGOBETC: As a humanitarian and uniformed service organization, the Philippine Coast Guard together with local communities and private sectors join in extending efforts in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) conduct of Brigada Eskwela (National Schools Maintenance Week) in Bataan which kicked-off last 30 May in preparation for the beginning for this year's opening of classes.

A total 111 of Candidate Coast Guard Officers and training staff of Coast Guard Officers’ Basic Education and Training Center participated in the said event in cleaning-up, refurbishing and improving the quality of education facilities of different educational institutions namely Emilio C Bernabe National High School, Bagac Elementary School, Pinagsumilan Elementary School, and Overland Elementary School in Bagac; and Parang Elementary School in Balanga, Bataan.

CGOC CL 18 and CL 20-2015 undergo Rope Rescue Training

PCG-CGOBETC: A three-day rope rescue training was attended by the members of the Coast Guard Officers Course Class 18- 2015 and Coast Guard Officers Course Class 20- 2015 that was held at the grounds of Coast Guard Officers’ Basic Education and Training Center at NPC Nuclear Power Village, Bagac, Bataan last 14- 16 March 2016.

The said event was conducted by Mr. Michael Odiongan, a skilled mountaineer and expert rescuer. During the first day of the training, he discussed about the different rescue techniques and equipment familiarization to the trainees. He demonstrated the different rescue knots, anchoring and rigging techniques especially the belay and lowering system, and let the trainees perform it by themselves afterwards.

On the second day, he taught the trainees how to properly and safely ascend and descend using the wall climbing facility located within the NPC Village.

Finally, on the last day, the rappelling skills and knowledge of the trainees were tested as they experienced was all about rappelling where the trainees were able to try and experience rappelling at the water tank situated in front of the NPC Hotel.

The trainees were able to learn a lot from the three-day event as the knowledge and skills they acquired in the rope rescue training is valuable to their profession, as it also involves search and rescue. It also made them regard and appreciate the challenges that come along this line of work as it requires attitude, proficiency and expertise to be able to perform and accomplish it.

CGOBETC holds Mock Elections

PCG-CGOBETC: On 04 May 2016, the Coast Guard Officers’ Basic Education and Training Center (CGOBETC) holds its first ever Mock elections which was participated by the Tactical Officers, Drill Instructors, the Training Staff, along with the three (3) CGOC classes, CGOC Class 18-2015, CGOC Class 19-2015 and CGOC Class 20-2015 at NPC, Nuclear Power Village, Bagac, Bataan in connection with the upcoming 2016 Philippine National Election scheduled on 09 May 2016.

The mock elections is a simulation of the actual election process and at CGOBETC, it was conducted for educational and transformational purposes. The said election was partial and only consisted of the Presidential, Vice-Presidential up to Senatorial candidates.

This National Election has been one of the most interesting and most watched campaigns in the history of the country due to the close competition between the candidates. The mock elections at CGOBETC was executed for the training staff as well as for the trainees to be acquainted with the new style of voting and let them initially decide their favored candidate as it is important that individuals in this institution develop their wise decision-making skills and interest to fully engage in our democratic processes.

L.A.H.A.T. talks on Proper Waste Management

PCG-CGOBETC: Last 06 April 2016, the CCGO’s together with the training staff, had a seminar-workshop about proper Waste Management with its main purpose – to educate CGOBETC on protecting the environment.

The Recyclubles spearheaded the program with Ms. Binggirl Clemente, the president of L.A.H.A.T (Lupa Ako Hangin Araw at Tubig) Foundation, as the guest lecturer.

One focal point of the discussion is the four R’s which stands for Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Refuse. Ms. Clemente emphasized the 4th ‘R’ which is ‘Refuse.’ It generally speaks of a practice where the use of plastic should not be authorized or more likely to be used minimally.

The speaker suggested that the use of plastics particularly, plastic sando bags should be banned in CGOBETC most especially during marketing and use cloth bags instead. She also came up with a solution to the waste management dilemmas based on the proposed resolutions of each groups during the workshop session.

As an initial response, The Recyclubles already put trash bins on each cabanas with labels by category and started the waste segregation and recycling process.

CGOBETC runs for S.A.F.E. 2016 Elections

PCG-CGOBETC: Last 23 April 2016, CGOBETC joined a five (5) km fun run organized by PNP Bataan in coordination with Bataan COMELEC. The PCG participants comprising of two (2) Tactical Officers LTJG DAYONDON PCG and LTJG ANACITA PCG, eighty-nine (89) Candidate Coast Guard Officers of CGOC “GABAY LAYAG” Class 18-2015 and CGOC “SINAGILAS” Class 19-2015, and training staff joined forces to promote the theme SAFE "Secure and Fair Election". This event was organized for the election on 9 May 2016, a movement initiated to make an extra effort to choose leaders who are responsible in leading the country towards development.

Other participants in the activity are cadets from the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pcific (MAAP), Bataan COMELEC and Private Sectors of Balanga, Bataan. Before the gun start, the participants joined the Zumba dance intermission that got them all hyped and warmed up. The trail started from Balanga Plaza going to Balanga Hospital as the Pit Stop and back to the starting line. Several types of running enthusiasts were noticeable throughout the run. There were some competitive runners who primarily joined in order to compete for the title of the fastest runner, some non-competitive runners, group runners, family runners, as well as individual runners who joined for the fun and experience of the event.

With the unity and effort showcased by CGOBETC, this center was successfully awarded with two (2) of the group awards for the said event: The Most Organized Group and The Most Number of Participants who joined the event.

Moreover, three of the CCGOs bagged awards in the competitive run category, CCGO SHERMIN CLAIRE TUAZON PCG (CGOC Class 18-2015) and CCGO IVY MAE PELAYO PCG (CGOC Class 19-2015) got 1st Place and 2nd Place respectively in the 5k (female) category, and CCGO MARK JOSEPH AXEL ADLAWAN PCG (CGOC Class 18- 2015) got 3rd Place in the 5k (male) category. This only shows that we, as Coast Guardians have displayed the necessary unity and attitude to finish any given task.

Through this activity, we realize that running is a simple exercise but running for a purpose has a greater of meaning.

PCG marks 2nd Capas Freedom March

PCG-CGOBETC: It was a weeklong activity for the Philippine Coast Guard as we joined in the national observance of Araw ng Kagitingan and the Philippine Veterans Week.

The Command participated on various activities, such as: Tribute to all Filipino Heroes which was held on 07 April 2016 at Corregidor Island; celebration of the Araw ng Kagitingan at Mt. Samat Shrine on 09 April 2016; and the Capas Freedom March on 11 April 2016 at Capas, Tarlac.

This year’s Freedom March commemorates the 74th anniversary of the Bataan Death March which took place on 09 April 1942, where almost 80,000 Filipino and American soldiers were forced by the Japanese military to walk from Bagac, Bataan and from Bagac, Bataan and from Mariveles, Bataan as the two starting points to Camp o’ Donell in Capas, Tarlac.

On 11 April 2016 at 5 o’clock in the morning, one hundred twenty (120) delegates from Coast Guard Officers’ Basic Education and Training Center (CGOBETC) joined the ten (10) kilometers distance march stretching from Capas to Capas Shrine at Camp OʼDonnel for the re-enactment of the historic Bataan Death March of the World War II in Capas, Tarlac.

This year’s theme was, “March for a Veteran”. Participants were given bibs that read: In Memory of (name of veteran soldier) and were put on every participants’ back.

Leading the huge number of participants from the Filipino and American soldiers, the representatives from civilian/national government agencies, the local government units, the non-government organizations, the students and the private corporations was a veteran himself and Former President of the Republic of the Philippines, Fidel V Ramos.

At the age of 88, he is still full of energy marching under the heat of the sun, demonstrating that he is truly an epitome of a brave and gallant Filipino soldier. During his younger years as a soldier, Ramos, along with the Philippines' 20th Battalion Combat Team and the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea (PEFTOK), fought in the Korean War. He was an Infantry Reconnaissance Platoon Leader.

Former President Fidel V Ramos was one of the heroes of the Battle of Hill Eerie, where he led his platoon to sabotage the enemy in Hill Eerie. He was also present in the Vietnam War as a non-combat civil military engineer and Chief of Staff of the Philippine Civil Action Group (PHILCAG).

This march reminds us of our great history as a nation, of how brave and gallant our Filipino soldiers are, and through this, we feel a sense of pride of being a Filipino which we can proudly say that, “Yes, we came from a great race.”

By participating in this activity, we can imbibe to the younger generation the spirit of nationalism. As what Dr. Jose P Rizal said, “Ang Kabataan ay Pag-asa ng ating Bayan” and by continuously supporting this event annually, we can help raise funds for the reconstruction of the Capas Concentration Camp that will serve as the highlight of the Capas National Shrine Museum.

IGSL cultivates CGOC’s Transformational Christian Leadership

PCG-CGOBETC: CGOBETC Cornerstone Christian Community (C4) in collaboration with International Graduate School of Leaders (IGSL) conducted a Transformational Christian Leadership Training last 13-14 March 2016 for the members of three (3) CGOC Classes of 2015.

IGSL is a Christian community that envisions a growing network of Christ- like leaders building spiritual movements, exerting moral influence and transforming nations for the glory of God. Its mission is to develop servant- steward leaders for key sectors of society.

The IGSL team is composed of Christian leaders from different military uniformed armed services including Professor Geri Gambala (a former Philippine Army Captain and a member of PMA Class ’95), Rev. Pastor Neil Mamburam, CDR EILEEN C DOMINE PN, MAJ REY DAET PA, LT ROMMEL RODRIGUEZ PN and Fire Chief Inspector STEVE ROSALES BFP.

On Day 1 of the 2-day leadership training, the participants were divided into two groups: the Born Again Christian group and the other sectarian group in order to provide the precise knowledge and wisdom needed to sustain spiritual growth.

The said activity yielded positive outcomes for the students. Particularly, when asked about their feedback after the activity, several CCGOs expressed positive emotions and opinions.

“Nakakatuwa na meron tayong mga ganitong activity, I learned more about life with Jesus and as how to be a leader like Him,” expressed by CCGO BEA N CAÑEDO PCG of Class 20 – 2015.

Meanwhile, CCGO EMMANUEL JOHN E CRUZ PCG of CGOC Class 19 – 2015 explained, “The training was all about life line and finding yourself as well as your God- given purpose in this life”.

Moreover, the Sunday Worship service was headed by Pastor Mamburam and shared how to achieve the heart of a great leader.

It is another milestone in the leadership of the CGOBETC Course Director, CDR ALGIER D RICAFRENTE PCG through the initiative of C4 headed by CCGO JEM MARIE T DE JESUS PCG. Moreover, last 05-06 May 2016, the CGOC Class 18-2015 participated in a 2-day seminar- workshop headed by (Ret.) COL. MICHAEL MORALES PCG at the IGSL Campus at Mindanao Ave., Quezon City to further enhance the leadership skills of the most senior class and to strengthen the partnership between IGSL and the PCG in empowering the future officers of this organization.

Lenten Activities Lift the CCGO’s Spirits

PCG-CGOBETC: Various activities had been set and actively participated by the three Coast Guard Officers’ Course Classes 18, 19, and 20-2015 during the three- day celebration of the Lenten season at Coast Guard Officers’ Basic Education Training Center last 25 – 27 March 2016.

As per scheduled, they were indulged in meditation and reflection.

Meanwhile, the Cathedral of Praise (Balanga, Bataan Branch), headed by Pastor Eric Lopez came, shared the Gospel, and reminded the trainees that hope is found in Christ Jesus alone.

To further feel the essence of the holiday, a modified Journey to the Cross with twelve stations has been prepared in remembrance of Christ’s suffering just to save the humans from eternal condemnation. Though tired and busy, the three classes united to pursue the program for the Easter Sunday. A funny yet witty presentations from each class were showcased which made the occasion more colorful and lively. Moreover, some of the drill instructors and a number of cadets enjoyed their time playing egg relay, egg catching, and the likes.

This celebration also serves as an opportunity for the trainees to hone their talents in organizing program, establishing leadership skills, working with stability under pressure, and building good rapport with each class.

CGOBETC Director and Staff leap to next higher rank

PCG-CGOBETC: The Coast Guard Officers Basic Education and Training Center (CGOBETC) personnel and Candidate Coast Guard Officers (CCGOs) celebrated the recent promotion of its Director, CDR ALGIER D RICAFRENTE PCG to the next higher rank as Commander last 26 March 2016.

The donning and oath taking ceremony presided by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, RADM WILLIAM M MELAD PCG, took place at PCG headquarters in Manila last 12 March 2016.

CDR RICAFRENTE PCG considered his promotion as another blessing from God and an added stripe on his shoulders is an added responsibility as well as an opportunity to learn and influence more people. “If you think that I’ve taught you many things, I’ve learned many things from you. Yung leadership ko from previous units, iba kesa sa leadership na pinapakita ko dito dahil yun yung natutunan ko with you.”

“Natutunan ko yung mga adjustments na kailangan, yung gaano talaga kahirap yung ginagawa ng mga Tactical Officers at Course Director namin dati na hindi ka naman nag-eenjoy parusahan ang mga kadete mo pero, what you want for them is to learn, para madisiplina” he stated during his privilege speech.

He wouldn’t achieve such feat without the hardships he surpassed and experiences he encountered. Prior to his current position, he was assigned aboard to five PCG search and rescue vessels. He also served in major commands such as the Headquarters Coast Guard Fleet; Coast Guard Weapons, Communications, Electronics, Information Systems Services; and PCG units such as the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog particularly in Coast Guard Station (CGS) Romblon, CGS Calapan and CGS Lucena.

Moreover, due to their invaluable service to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), LTJG KAREN NIÑA A ENDONA PCG, LTJG CARINA G DAYONDON PCG, and LTJG REY D ANACITA PCG, the three tactical officers at the CGOBETC were also promoted to the next higher rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) (O-2) last 01 February 2016 at PCG Headquarters, Manila.

According to the privilege speech given by the most senior promotee, LTJG ENDONA PCG, she mentioned, “On this day, as we advance a step higher and add another bar on our shoulders, let us be reminded that the weight that we carry on these shoulders also have to bear.

But at the same time, let the added weight that pulls us down always remind us to stay humble and keep our feet firmly planted on the ground in everything that we do.”

“There is no greater honor than having the opportunity to serve our beloved country as servicemen, but it also demands an even greater sense of nationalism in this noble profession. We must now continue using our voice as leaders to influence and inspire others. And show the world that we can become leaders who are confident and strong, “LTJG ENDONA PCG also added.

The newly promoted junior officers are proud members of CGOC “Lakbay-Lahi” Class 12 of 2011 who hurdled six months of semi-regimental training at Coast Guard Education and Training Center in Taguig.

COP 'MMU’ equips CGOC with Bible

The Cathedral of Praise (COP) Mighty Men in Uniform (MMU) donated bibles for each CGOC trainees and the training staff of CGOBETC at NPC Nuclear Power Village, Bagac, Bataan last 04 February 2016.
Aside from the donation of bibles, the MMU, which consists of retired Officers from different branches Armed Forces, together with Pastor Eric Lopez of COP Balanga, Bataan, conducted an evangelism fellowship where they shared the good news of salvation to the said participants.

Mighty Men in Uniform (MMU) is the official group of Christian Men and Women of Cathedral of Praise who aims to equip the different Uniformed and Armed Service men and women to help them take care of their spiritual life while they are still on training and most especially guide them as they become full-pledged officers.

Moreover, this was the first time that COP visited at CGOBETC. Hence, in support of the CGOC’s Spiritual welfare, Pastor Lopez promised to dedicate his time to share God’s Word at CGOBETC together with his team from COP (Balanga, Bataan) on the proposed schedule which is every fourth Saturday of the month.