MANILA, Philippines — The United States will donate communications equipment valued over $100,000 (roughly P4.3 million) to the Philippine Coast Guard and will train its officers in support of the government’s non-proliferation, maritime security, and border control efforts.

US Chargé d’ Affaires Leslie A. Bassett will turn over the radio equipment to newly installed Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Rear Admiral Edmund Tan during a ceremony to be held at the Philippine Coast Guard Headquarters in Port Area, Manila on Monday.

The equipment includes portable hand-held radios, headsets, carry cases, back-up batteries, control station antennas, a multipurpose tent and assorted equipment accessories.

Following the turnover, Bassett will officially open an advanced boarding course for Philippine Coast Guard officers. The two-week course consists of classroom instruction and practical exercises in conducting normal to high-risk boardings.

The equipment donation and training program are funded by the Export Control and Related Border Security Program, the US government's premier initiative to help other countries improve their export control systems.

It is an interagency program, managed by the Department of State's Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation, designed to help prevent proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), their missile delivery systems, conventional weapons, and related items by assisting foreign governments to establish and implement effective export control systems that meet international standards.