Former congressman Kiko Barzaga called for the abolition of the Philippine Coast Guard following the arrest of a Coast Guard official in connection with an alleged extortion case involving Filipino fishermen.
In a recorded statement, Barzaga said the arrest highlighted what he described as corruption within the agency and accused some personnel of exploiting fishermen.
“Earlier this week, a Philippine Coast Guard official was arrested for extorting multiple Filipino fishermen,” Barzaga said, referring to a recent case involving a Coast Guard officer.
Barzaga argued that the incident strengthened his longstanding position that the Philippine Coast Guard should be abolished. He claimed the agency had become a corrupt institution and criticized its role in maritime operations in the West Philippine Sea and South China Sea.
The former lawmaker also mentioned Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Vice Admiral Martin Romualdez during his remarks, alleging that powerful political figures could help shield those involved from accountability.
“Although they have powerful politicians behind them, such as PCGA Vice Admiral Martin Romualdez, and they may freely escape accountability from their crimes against the Filipino people,” Barzaga said.
Despite this, Barzaga expressed confidence that those responsible would eventually face justice.
“The will of the Lord is still absolute and we shall ultimately bring justice upon the corrupt Philippine Coast Guard,” he said.
