[2] The unit was created along with the PNP by virtue of Republic Act RA 6975 otherwise known as Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990 (Section 35.b.1):[3] The concept of a maritime police unit emanated during the days of Philippine Constabulary that led to the creation of a seaborne battalion called Constabulary Off-Shore Anti-Crime Battalion (COSAC) on February 1, 1971.

[4] To perform all police functions and ensure public safety and internal security over Philippine territorial waters and rivers including ports of entry and exit; and sustain the protection of the maritime environment.

These units are envisioned to protect the territorial waters of the Philippines by providing rapid and highly mobile seaborne law enforcement response.

In the campaign against smuggling, RA 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), this Group has conducted 137 operations that resulted in the seizures of 32,135 reams, 3,964 boxes, 3,150,398 liters of petroleum product and 2,000 sacks of onions with an estimated value amounting to PhP181,216,810.00.

This innovative approach addresses the dual challenges of poverty and geographical isolation, offering a lifeline of learning opportunities to underserved communities.

This launch provided education to 15 children in the remote community, igniting hope and opening doors to knowledge for those who previously had little or no access to formal schooling.

Beyond providing basic informal education, the program emphasizes environmental awareness, conservation, and fostering a sense of national responsibility among young learners.

The "School-in-a-Boat" Project stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and collaboration, proving that even in the most isolated and disadvantaged areas, hope can float on the waves of learning.

The SALBABIDA Project is the flagship initiative of the Maritime Group, focusing on disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and community engagement in coastal areas.

The project has identified 3,684 disaster-prone coastal barangays and conducted 486 Search and Rescue (SAR) equipment inventories to maintain operational readiness.

To safeguard coastal and urban waterways, the project organized 466 beach clean-ups and facilitated 669 seminars and webinars on topics like drug prevention and environmental conservation.

Collaborating with 109 stakeholders, including Local Government Units (LGUs) and Non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the project ensures a lasting impact.

Some of the success stories during the implementation of this project are the following: • On June 27, 2024, during a clean-up operation at Estero Dela Reina, Tondo, Manila, the Maritime Group discovered a deceased fetus in a labeled container abandoned in the garbage.

This tragic incident highlights the project’s role in addressing both environmental and societal challenges; • On July 3, 2024, Team 5, led by PMAJ JERWIN I LALAMORO conducted a proactive patrol in Brgy.

The individuals consisted of four men and one female minor, all of whom lacked the necessary legal documents for travel were attempting to reach Malaysia through an illegal route.

Currently, the individuals have been turned over to the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) in Bongao, where they received appropriate assistance and protection from local authorities.

The Maritime Group continues to encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities related to human trafficking.

The individuals consisted of four men and one female minor, all of whom lacked the necessary legal documents for travel were attempting to reach Malaysia through an illegal route.

The Maritime Group continues to encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities related to human trafficking.

Despite challenges like logistical constraints, communication breakdowns, and responder fatigue, the operations underscored the Maritime Group’s commitment to saving lives and aiding recovery.

Recommendations include improved communication systems, pre-positioned relief supplies, enhanced SAR logistics, and better support for responders to strengthen future disaster responses.

with an estimated value of PhP105,000.00 and the arrest of 3 individuals for Violation of Section 92 of RA 10654 (Fishing Through Explosives, Noxious or Poisonous Substance, or Electricity).

On March 2, 2024, personnel from 2nd SOU-MG, in coordination with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) and Taytay Municipal Police Station, conducted a joint operation against illegal wildlife trading in Sitio Manguao, Brgy.

On July 13, 2024, personnel of 1st TTPMFC received information from a concerned citizen that a motorized boat loaded with undetermined quantity of assorted smuggled cigarettes docked and unloaded the contraband items at a warehouse located in the coastal area of Barangay Lamion, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.

The team quickly assembled a makeshift banca, allowing them to transport elderly residents and children safely to the evacuation center, ensuring the community’s most vulnerable were brought to safety.

The 2nd SOU-MG team provided immediate medical assistance, performing CPR before transporting him to further care with the support of a registered nurse and family members.

[18] On May 6, 2014, a PNP Maritime Group patrol intercepted a Chinese fishing vessel loaded with about 500 live and dead Sea turtles, of assorted species, off the coast of Western Palawan.