MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has officially signed a ship maintenance contract with French shipbuilder OCEA S.A., the agency announced. The contract signing ceremony took place on April 11, 2025, at the French Ambassador's residence in North Forbes Park, Makati City.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan and OCEA S.A. CEO Jacques Briaud attended the signing ceremony, committing to enhanced cooperation in ensuring the operational readiness and sustainability of PCG vessels built in France.

This partnership is considered a significant milestone in the PCG's ongoing efforts to bolster maritime safety, security, and environmental protection. Under the agreement, OCEA S.A. will provide technical support, regular maintenance services, and a stable supply of essential spare parts for the PCG's OCEA-built vessel, BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301).

The contract is valued at Php 130,000,000.00 (one hundred thirty million Philippine pesos) and may be subject to future adjustments. OCEA S.A.'s Philippine branch has committed to providing one year of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) services and spare parts for BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301).

Furthermore, for an additional amount of Php 50,000,000.00 (fifty million Philippine pesos), which may also be adjusted in the future, OCEA S.A.'s Philippine branch also secured a contract to supply three months of additional Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) services and spare parts for four 24-meter fast patrol boats upon the PCG's request.

In related news, OCEA S.A. announced plans on December 14, 2022, to build a Php 1.5 billion shipyard in the Philippines. This shipyard aims to construct vessels ranging from 15 to 120 meters in length for maritime safety and security, transportation, and fisheries, and is expected to generate approximately 500 to 600 direct and indirect jobs.

OCEA S.A. first expressed its intention to invest in a Philippine shipyard project during the 9th Philippines-France Joint Economic Committee (JEC) meeting held in July 2021. The company formalized its commitment by submitting a letter of intent to the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regarding the establishment of OCEA Shipbuilding Philippines Inc.

This maintenance contract aims to ensure the long-term performance, efficiency, and seaworthiness of the vessels, which play a crucial role in maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response operations.

The PCG expressed its gratitude for the continued partnership with OCEA S.A. and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its maritime capabilities through reliable international cooperation.

French Ambassador to the Philippines Michèle Boccoz and Philippine Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista graced the event as guests of honor, witnessing this historic partnership.