The Philippine Embassy in Ottawa supported the activation of the first overseas unit of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) in a solemn virtual ceremony presided by Admiral George V. Ursabia, Jr., Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

PCGA National Director Vice Admiral Beethoven Sur welcomed the 19 PCGA overseas pioneers. Admiral Ursabia administered their oath before activating their 209.5 Division led by PCGA Commander Jesus Adonis Sucalit. The 209.5 Division is supervised by the 209th Squadron based in Cebu City, Philippines led by PCGA Captain Lilibeth Faelnar. The inductees were led by PCGA Commander Francisco Noel Fernandez III.

PCG Commandant Admiral George V. Ursabia, Jr. (2R, Top Row) and PCGA National Director Vice Admiral Beethoven Sur (L, Bottom Row) led the activation ceremony of the 209.5 Division, the first overseas unit of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) based in Ottawa, Canada.

Pioneering officials of the PCGA 209.5 Division were activated into service in a virtual ceremony attended by the most senior officials of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA).

The Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary is a service-oriented, uniformed volunteer organization established in 1972 by the Philippine Coast Guard. The PCGA is committed to support and assist the PCG in activities that enhance maritime community relations, including the promotion of safety of life and property at sea and the protection of the marine environment and its resources. The functions of PCGA were institutionalized with the implementation of Republic Act No. 9993 or the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009.