PDEA, Korea Coast Guard Formalize Partnership Through MOU Signing

Strengthening maritime defense against drug smuggling

PDEA File Photos

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Korea Coast Guard (KCG) have formalized a strengthened partnership to protect their maritime borders from being turned into corridors of drug smuggling.

The agreement was sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the heads of both agencies: PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R Nerez and Commissioner General of the Korea Coast Guard, Kim Yong Jin, at the KCG Headquarters in Incheon, Republic of South Korea, on November 25, 2025.

Under the MoU, PDEA and KCG commit to establishing and sustaining close cooperation through the exchange of intelligence, including information on methods of drug trafficking, concealment techniques, patterns of criminal activity, and emerging narcotic substances, among others. The partnership also aims to improve joint capabilities to detect, deter, and disrupt transnational drug smuggling operations.

“This shared commitment is more than a formal partnership on paper. It is a testament to the strength of international solidarity. In the global fight against illegal drugs, no nation stands alone. Strong collaboration — one that protects our people and preserves our future, is the only way forward to prevent drug criminal networks from exploiting our seas”, DG Nerez said.

The PDEA-KCG partnership underscores a mutual dedication to ensuring that the waters of the Philippines and South Korea remain safe, secure, and impenetrable to the drug trade. #