Tarriela hits Barzaga over calls to abolish PCG

Cavite Rep. Francisco ‘Kiko’ Barzaga and Commodore Jay Tarriela of the Philippine Coast Guard. — Photos from Kiko Barzaga/Facebook and Noy Morcoso/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Commodore Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, did not mince words in addressing Cavite Rep. Francisco ‘Kiko’ Barzaga after the lawmaker’s remarks against the organization.

Tarriela said he can’t help but address Barzaga’s “misleading and inflammatory remarks.”

Barzaga, in a social media address recently, called for the abolition of PCG, as he believes it is a “waste of our government funds.”

To this, Tarriela said: “As a member of House of Representatives of the Philippines, to call for the abolition of the PCG and dismiss our existence as a ‘waste of government funds’ is both reckless and deeply insulting to the 36,000-strong of the PCG who serve this nation with honor and courage.”

“Many have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty,” he continued. “To trivialize their service as wasteful betrays not only a lack of understanding but also a lack of empathy.”

The lawmaker also accused PCG of potentially causing World War III in performing its duty in the West Philippine Sea.

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, but a landmark 2016 arbitral award effectively dismissed this while ruling heavily in favor of Manila’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.

Along with the Philippine Navy, the PCG also serves as the frontliner in West Philippine Sea maritime missions, bearing the brunt of Beijing’s aggression, which some say borders on “armed attack” that could compel the United States to come to the defense of its sole treaty ally in Asia.

Nevertheless, Tarriela said Barzaga’s World War III remark is “alarmist, inaccurate, and deeply irresponsible.”

“The PCG’s presence there is not an act of provocation,” he said. “PCG’s absence would be a blatant dereliction of duty.”

READ: Army removes Cavite Rep. Barzaga from reserve force

Tarriela also addressed Barzaga’s allegation of corruption against the armed service for conferring “high ranks” on political figures.

The official said the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009 states that the members of the PCG Auxiliary—civilian volunteers under the direct supervision of the PCG Commandant—are only given symbolic recognition, hold no command positions, and exercise no operational control over the organization.

“I respectfully urge Congressman Barzaga to retract his statements and recommend that he consult with a doctor or a lawyer for a clearer understanding of the Philippine Coast Guard,” Tarriela said. /das