The BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410), a Parola-class patrol vessel, is a symbol of the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime interests. Named after the Bagacay Point Lighthouse located in Liloan, Cebu, this vessel is a testament to the PCG’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the Philippine waters.
Design and Features
The BRP Bagacay is a law enforcement vessel designed to conduct environmental and humanitarian missions, as well as maritime security operations and patrol missions. The ship was designed with a bulletproof navigation bridge and is equipped with fire monitors, night vision capability, a work boat, and radio direction finder capability.
The ship is also equipped with communications and radio monitoring equipment from Rohde & Schwarz, specifically the M3SR Series 4400 and Series 4100 software-defined communication radios, and DDF205 radio monitoring equipment. These equipment enhance the ship’s reconnaissance, pursuit, and communications capabilities.
Construction, Delivery, and Commissioning
The BRP Bagacay was built by Japan Marine United in Yokohama, Japan. After completing sea trials, the vessel arrived at the Philippine Coast Guard National Headquarters on May 31, 2018. It was officially commissioned into the Philippine Coast Guard fleet on August 23, 2018, along with BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411).
Service History
The BRP Bagacay has been actively serving the PCG Southwestern Mindanao District based in Zamboanga City since September 2018. It joined two other ships of her class already deployed there, the BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4402) and BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408).
The vessel has been involved in various operations, including intercepting a motor boat carrying smuggled cigarettes off the coast of Zamboanga City in July 2021. It also conducted a medical evacuation of an Australian veterinarian from the livestock carrier MV Maysora off the coast of Zamboanga City.
In a recent incident, the BRP Bagacay was subjected to water cannon attacks by the Chinese Coast Guard near Bajo de Masinloc. Despite the harassment and attacks, the mission succeeded in resupplying Philippine fishing vessels.
Conclusion
The BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410) continues to serve as a beacon of maritime security in the Philippines. Its dedicated crew and state-of-the-art equipment enable it to carry out its missions effectively, ensuring the safety and security of the Philippine waters. The vessel’s resilience and commitment to duty, especially in the face of adversity, make it a true embodiment of the PCG’s mission.