The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ranked as one of the most trusted and best performing institutions in the government amid a lawmaker's call to abolish the organization due to alleged corruption and "constantly escalating tension in the West Philippine Sea".

The third quarter Tugon ng Masa nationwide survey by OCTA Research conducted from September 25 to 30 shows that " the PCG stands out as onebof the most trusted and best-performing institutions in government" with great majority or 75 percent of adult Filipinos are satisfied with how the organization performed its duties over the past three months.

Only four percent have expressed dissatisfaction.

"These findings confirm that the PCG enjoys broad public approval, particularly in coastal regions where its operations are most visible. Satisfaction appears to be shaped by both regional exposure and perceived responsiveness, especially in areas affected by maritime incidents or geopolitical tensions," it stated.

A great majority or 71 percent of Filipinos also express trust in the PCG, while 24 percent remain undecided and only five percent express distrust.

The survey noted that the "results reflect public recognition of the PCG’s professionalism, discipline, and visible leadership in maritime safety, disaster response, and the protection of maritime rights, particularly in the West Philippine Sea."

In his recent statement, Cavite Rep. Francisco Barzaga called for the abolition of the PCG claiming that it is allegedly "one of the most corrupt branches of the government" that "constantly escalating tension in the West Philippine Sea" which "can become the cause of World War III".

However, the results of the survey noted "indicate that the high levels of public trust and satisfaction with the PCG’s performance are influenced by the ongoing territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea."

"Public sentiment reflects not only strong approval of the PCG’s operational effectiveness," the survey stated.

"Positive assessments of the PCG’s performance are closely associated with public awareness of its role in maritime security, and disaster response," it added.

In a statement, PCG spokesperson, Captain Noemie Cayabyab said that Barzaga's allegations and call to demolish the organization "are unfair to the

dedicated men and women of the PCG".

“The Command remains open to dialogue with Congressman Barzaga and all stakeholders in Congress to clarify misconceptions and strengthen cooperation toward maritime security and safety,” she said.

On allegation that PCG provide high positions to what Barzaga called as "undeserving public officials" including "Vice Admiral Martin Romualdez and Rear Admiral Larry Gadon", Cayabyab explained that the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) composed of civilian volunteers who assist in community-based and humanitarian missions "are not active-duty PCG officers, and their honorary ranks do not confer authority or compensation".

“The PCG will continue to fulfill its mandates with integrity, courage, and selfless commitment to the Filipino people by protecting lives and upholding the rule of law at sea,” she said. Robina Asido/DMS