The proliferation and volume of threats in South East Asian waters is becoming ever more diverse. Issues such as illegal immigration, the smuggling of illicit goods and arms, piracy, human trafficking, anti- terrorism, illegal fishing, are all pressing concerns for governments and maritime organisations in the region.

In addition to the increase in the growing military might of China, it’s never been more important for the countries in SE Asia to expand and maintain a robust maritime security presence. All maritime security and defence organisations must begin to work together towards common goals to neutralise these threats. 

“We are increasing the maritime security capacity of our allies and partners, to respond to threats in waters off their coasts and to provide maritime security more broadly across the region,” the White House announced.

The Armed Forces Philippines modernization program within the core Department of National Defense (DND) is set to spend a record budget of 552 million this year to purchase frigates, surveillance planes, and radar equipment to improve surveillance and detection in the disputed West Philippine Sea. It is said to be the highest-ever increase in spending for military modernization in over two decades. This clearly depicts the shift in the market in terms of maritime security, from west to east.

In conjunction with The National Coast Watch Council Secretariat, Office of The President Of The Republic of Philippines, we IQPC Worldwide Pte Ltd will be hosting the inaugural Maritime Security and Coastal Surveillance Philippines conference on 9 and 10 of June in Manila. The theme for 2016 will be enhancing maritime security and coastal surveillance in the Philippines and APAC region through the effective use of surveillance and cutting-edge technologies. This is an ideal platform for both the international and regional navies, coast guards, maritime and defence organisations to discuss and analyse the scenarios surrounding maritime security and coastal surveillance.

Maritime Security and Coastal Surveillance Philippines conference will bring  over 250 delegates from international and regional Navies, Coast Guards, maritime security organisations, government and defence agencies to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities pertaining to the following topics:

• Maritime Security [counter-piracy operations, maritime terrorism, smuggling, illegal fishing]
• Coastal Surveillance
• Maritime Domain Awareness
• Naval & Aerial procurement and assets plans
• Humanitarian assistance [search and rescue, disaster relief]
• Fisheries Security / Surveillance
• Border Protection / EEZ Protection
• Trade Safety – Maritime Security

The two day conference is an extremely important platform for key political officials, various organisation chiefs and decision makers to evaluate and search for the latest technological solutions to assist them with their operations for 2016 and beyond.

If you are interested in participating, please feel free to contact me directly at maya.sivamany@iqpc.com.sg 

Regards,

Maya Sivamany