Orientation Manual

VST Group

Commodore Edgardo P. Idquival, PCGA

Director VST&P

Captain Roberto F. de los Reyes, PCGA

Deputy Director VST&P
 Orientation Manual
VST Group History of the PCG

The Bureau of Coast Guard and Transportation was created under the
Americans pursuant to the Philippine Commission Act 226.

After several transformations the Philippine Coast Guard was created

as a major unit of the Philippine Navy on Oct. 10, 1967 under Republic
Act 5173.

On March 30, 1998, Executive Order 475 transferred the PCG to the
Office of the President.

On April 15, 1998, Executive Order 477 transferred the PCG to the
Department of Transport and Communications.

Republic Act 5173 formalized the PCG while still under the DOTC.

Republic Act 9993, the “Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009”, replaced
RA 5173 and formalized the existence of the Philippine Coast Guard
Auxiliary under the PCG.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group The PCGA: When and Why

On February 9, 1972, a PCG commandant recognizing the value of a

civilian volunteer group created the PCGA.

Up until RA 9993, the PCGA existed merely at the behest of

succeeding PCG commandants. A testament to the valuable
contribution of the PCGA over the years.

Republic Act 9993, or the Philippine Coast Guard Law, is the legal basis
that formally recognized the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary as a
separate entity under the direct supervision of the PCG.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Differences Between the PCG and PCGA
PCG
• The PCG is an armed and uniformed
service of the country.
• Generally the PCG, with their bigger
ships, is a blue water fleet and is
largely active in open water.
PCGA
• The PCGA is a uniformed but civilian volunteer
organization that is there to provide assistance to
the PCG in the promotion of safety of life and
property at sea, preservation of the marine
environment and its resources, conduct of
maritime search and rescue as well as other
activities that would enhance maritime
community relations.
• The PCGA are non-combatants but can refer
police matters to the PCG for proper action.
• The PCGA in contrast is a green water
organization and operates along coastal areas,
harbours, inland lakes and navigable rivers.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Organization

• The PCGA mirrors the organization of the PCG.

• Although not present in the PCGA organization chart, the PCG commandant is the
highest authority recognized in the PCGA. He may delegate and as such, the vice-
commandant for operations (VCO) provides administrative and managerial guidance
to the PCGA through the coast guard chief coordinator (CG-7).

National Director (ND) - the highest authority within the PCGA. He is what the
commandant is to the PCG.

Deputy National Director for Operation – He is second in the leadership and can act for
and on behalf of the ND with regards the PCG.

Deputy National Director for Administration – Third in the PCGA leadership and can act
for and on behalf of the ND with the PCG.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Organization

Chief of Staff – liaises with the coast guard through CG-7 on staff concerns of the
National Auxiliary Main Office (NAMO) and coordination of auxiliary programs.

Director Auxiliary District (DAD) – Following that of the PCG, there are 12 DADs
corresponding to the 12 identified geographical areas. They implement the auxiliary
programs and policies through the various Directors Auxiliary Squadron (DAS).

Director Auxiliary Squadron (DAS) – Implements auxiliary programs and policies at the
auxiliary squadron level and liaisons with their respective DADs.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group
PCG Districts
CGD NCR-CL
CGAD Southern Tagalog
CGAD North Eastern Luzon
CGAD North Western Luzon
Organization
Coverage
National Capital Region
Zambales, Bataan,
Nueva Ecija, Tarlac
Pampanga, Cavite,
Laguna, Part of Quezon
Batangas, Marinduque,
Mindoro Occidental,
Mindoro Oriental,
Romblon
Babuyan Island,
Batanes, Cagayan,
Isabela, Aurora
Pangasinan, La Union,
Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte
 Orientation Manual
VST Group
PCG Districts
CGD Bicol
CGAD Eastern Visayas
CGAD Central Visayas
CGAD Western Visayas
CGAD Palawan
CGAD Western Mindanao
Organization
Coverage
Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte,
Catanduanes, Masbate
Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte,
Northern Samar, Eastern Samar
Negros Oriental, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor
Iloilo, Guimaras, Antique, Capiz, Aklan,
Negros Occidental
Palawan, Puerto Princesa,
Kalayaan Group of Islands
Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte,
Zamboanga del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Jolo,
Tawi-tawi
 Orientation Manual
VST Group
PCG Districts
CGD Eastern Mindanao
CGD Northern Mindanao
Organization
Coverage
Davao City, Davao del Norte,
Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental,
Agusan del Sur, Bukidnon,
Maguindanao, North Cotabato,
Sultan Kudarat, Saranggani
Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental,
Misamis Occidental, Agusan del Norte,
Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur,
Camiguin Island, Lanao del Norte,
Lanao del Sur
Orientation Manual
VST Group Organization
Orientation Manual
VST Group Organization
Orientation Manual
VST Group Organization
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Leadership and Management Relations
PCG

Commandant PCG

Vice-Commandant
CG-7
for Operations

National Director
PCGA
PCGA

National Auxiliary Main Office

Director Auxiliary Commander Coast

District Guard District

Director Auxiliary
Squadron

Dialogue paths (blue) are more distributed,

illustrating more freedom in verbal
communication. The document paths (red)
however must follow a prescribed route.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Leadership and Management Relations

Proposed PCG Commandant PCG

documentation
flow.
(under review) Vice-Commandant
CG-7
for Operations

Steps:
National Director
1. DAS PCGA
PCGA

2. DAD National Auxiliary Main Office

3. NAMO
4. DAD
5. CGD
6. CG7 Director Auxiliary Commander Coast
7. VCO District Guard District
8. C-PCG

Director Auxiliary
Squadron

Simplified document path.

 Orientation Manual
VST Group Who May Join?

Due to our close affiliation with the Philippine Coast Guard, there are strict guidelines
set by the PCG as to who can join the PCGA.

Education and economic background are not factors. Anyone who qualifies are most
welcome to join.

Needless to say, the PCGA is composed of dedicated volunteers who are willing to
share their time, fortune, knowledge and other resources they have to further the
PCGA cause.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Requirements

Requirements:
• Duly accomplished application forms
• NBI clearance After complying with all
• Police clearance requirements, a new
• Barangay clearance applicant shall be under a
(a referral by a PCGA member of good three month probationary
standing may suffice but is not encouraged) period; after which he will
• Transcript of records, diploma or PRC certificate be appointed as a member
• DTI permit or SEC registration for entrepreneurs and inducted into the PCGA
• 4pcs. 2x2 picture with red background service.
• Orientation seminar certificate
• Employment certificate
• Copy of payment for entrance fee

Submission of these requirements do not guarantee acceptance

into the PCGA, however they are essential for your application to
be considered.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group PCG Information Requirements

These are the personal

information documents
required by the PCG.
Orientation Manual
VST Group PCG Information Requirements
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Fees and Dues

Membership fees and monthly dues may change in time but as of March
2013 the following apply:

• Entrance fee of Php 1000 for new entrants

• Upon acceptance you will be given a rank to which there is an annual
fee:
• Auxiliarist (division level) N/A
• Ensign Php 500
• Lieutenant - Junior Grade Php 600
• Lieutenant Php 800
• Lieutenant Commander Php 1200
• Commander Php 1500
• Captain Php 2000
• Flag Ranks Php 2500
• There are monthly dues tied to monthly meetings. These help cover the
cost of the food and venue (consumables). The monthly dues of each
squadron differ. Some charge as much as Php600, others considerably
less. You do get what you pay for so make your choice.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Ethos

The Warrior Ethos is what the best militaries claim to be the reason behind their
successes against various enemies under the most unfavorable circumstances.
The Warrior Ethos is based on an adherence to values and commitment to doing
your best. It is the frame of mind whereby soldiers will not quit until they have
accomplished their mission. It is the professional attitude that inspires every
person to fulfil his or her obligations, regardless the obstacles and difficulty.

The warrior ethos is the refusal to accept failure and instead, overcome all
obstacles with honor. It begins as the soldier’s selfless commitment to the nation,
mission, unit and fellow soldiers. It is developed and sustained through discipline,
realistic training, commitment to military values and pride in military heritage.

The PCGA Ethos stems from the values we share and the selfless dedication we exhibit
day in and day out. We make ourselves the best we can be so we can not only help
those in need but more importantly help others help themselves. That requires us to
be leaders in doing what is just and right.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Vo l u n t e e r i s m

Volunteerism is serving from desire and passion. To volunteer is not about

doing something when you have nothing better to do. A willingness and need to act
not for personal glory but to make a difference in the world.

The PCGA volunteers its services for civic action while considering the needs
of its members. As constituents of the PCGA, your obligation is to try your best to be
present and participate in as many activities as you can.

The level of recognition and chances for promotion are directly linked to
your level of participation. The PCGA will thank you for your involvement. The PCGA
will reward you for your engagement.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Fitting In

All recruits will belong to a specific squadron and training will be given. So it is okay if you have
little or no technical skills at the onset.

Whereas each squadron is dedicated to a particular function (MARSAR, MAREP, MARSAF or

MCOMREL), each squad will have divisions in it where your talents, selflessness and assets can be
put to good use.

It is imperative that while the object of a uniformed organization such as the PCGA is to develop
leaders, it always works as a team where everyone gets to participate and contribute to the
attainment of the organization’s tasks.

Those that get left out are those who chose to be passive followers, waiting for the next orders
that may come his or her way. We are all active volunteers. The PCGA welcomes you with high
expectations.

Fishermen who have had no formal education at all but possess experience from years of living off
the sea are no less valuable to our organization than a marine biologist or diver.

We place a lot of importance on character, honesty, loyalty and dedication to name a few. Once
you qualify to be part of the organization, it is unthinkable that anyone would be discriminated
upon. Regardless of gender or age, you will have a role ready for you within the PCGA. We have a
saying in the PCGA that there is no retirement. Age brings with it experience and we value this
highly.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Fitting In

You are encouraged to join a squadron specializing in your talents and skillset. This is mutually
beneficial as it enhances the squadron’s capability while providing you with enjoyment and
fulfilment from doing something you’re good at.
VSTG
While each squadron is specialized under one of the
functional group; within each squadron is a subset of all
these functions that allows a squadron to perform all the MAREP COMREL
functions of the PCGA to some degree. PCGA

So even a group of friends with different skills can be in

the same squadron performing their respective MARSAR MARSAF
professions.

Example: MARSAR MAREP

SQUADRON - 00 SQUADRON - 01
Diver
MARSAR 00 MARSAR 01
Teacher
MAREP 00 MAREP 01

Biologist
COMREL 00 COMREL 01

S.Worker VST&P 00 VST&P 01

Mariner MARSAF 00 MARSAF 01

 Orientation Manual
VST Group The Functional Groups

MARSAR (Maritime Search and Rescue) - This is undoubtedly the most glamorous of the
support functions. It involves the saving of lives at sea and in areas designated by the
PCG. It provides technical as well as recreational divers, depending on the task at hand. It
provides medical assistance and is thus in need of doctors, nurses and trained first aid
providers. Among the equipment that it requires are boats, jet skis, ambulances, and
other life saving devices.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group The Functional Groups

MAREP (Marine Environmental Protection Group) - This function plays an important role
in helping save coastal areas and marine resources; ensuring that the environment can
continue to provide sustainable livelihood for the communities and preserving our
natural resources for generations to come.
It also encourages the proper disposal of trash and recycling of goods. It provides
lectures and training to promote and conserve the marine environment while
conducting clean ups to save the rivers and minimize pollutants reaching the sea. It is
involved in the propagation of mangroves which protect shorelines from the effects of
extreme weather conditions, including tsunamis as well as prevention of siltation
through bamboo and tree planting along river banks.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group The Functional Groups

MARSAF (Maritime Safety Group) - There are some highly technical services that this
group provides as we have many ship captains and master mariners. It also conducts
simple tasks such as providing aid to sea travellers. A large part of their work go into
conducting seminars to ensure that commuters travelling the bays, rivers and lakes are
kept safe and ensuring that boats have adequate life preservers and undergo proper
maintenance. Other important services they provide include safe boat handling, extreme
weather boat handling and weather prediction. MARSAF is about saving lives before they
become endangered.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group The Functional Groups

MCOMREL (Marine Community Relations) -

A relatively new functional group that provides
important input in the way we conduct our functional
tasks. It is tasked with the responsibility of immersing
our members within a given coastal community to best
appreciate their needs and to solicit cooperation for its
stakeholders. It manages the operations of the PCGA
within the said community so that activities are
properly coordinated. It also works with local
government officials and institutions to gain support for
PCGA projects. It establishes links with other NGOs
that have a common interest in the safeguarding of
marine resources as well as with other service
providers especially on health issues so we can
properly turn over to them traumatized victims and
relatives for proper disposition. MCOMREL manages
and delegates the tasks to the other three functional
groups.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group The Functional Groups

VST Group (Volunteer Services

Training Group) - This group works
for the PCGA organization itself
unlike the other community based
functional groups. It is tasked to
professionalize the organization by
bringing leadership and technical
training to the PCGA organization.
It does this by securing trainers and
technical materials from the PCG
and other sources which the other
functional groups may require. Its
work starts with the orientation of
PCGA applicants and continues
with providing training that will
make possible proper
implementation of tasks and
promotions to leadership positions
within the Squadron and District.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Manpower Requirements

COMREL MARSAR VST Group

• Social Workers • Divers • Teachers

• Psychologists • Medical doctors • Communicators
• Psychiatrists • Paramedics • Management
• Public Relations • Priests/Pastors Consultants
• Community Leaders • Psychiatrists • Field Specialists
• Human Relations • Psychologists • Former Navy/PCG
• Dentists (Protocol)
MAREP MARSAF • Computer Assistants
• Nurses
• Medtechs
• Chemists • Master Mariner
• Chemical engineers • Chief Engineer
• Statisticians • Lawyer
• Researchers • Marine Surveyor
• Scientists • Naval Architect
• Media • Mechanical Engineers
• Agriculturists • Industrial Engineers
• Botanists • Electrical Engineers
• Philanthropists • Diesel Mechanics
 Orientation Manual
VST Group What’s in it for you?

• The primary motivation to being a PCGA member is the company you keep. The PCGA is
composed of highly respected members belonging to various professions. Some even
have their own businesses. Networking is a certainty.

• We share a common desire for being of service to the less fortunate or those that are in
need of help. The benefits come from directly observing the fruits of our labour and
knowing we are making a difference in people’s lives. We see this is in the trust given to
us by other organizations who choose to work with us specifically.

• There is always the opportunity to learn something new. Personal development is one of
our key objectives.

• As ranks and ribbons are earned, there is that feeling of accomplishment when you get
to show more ribbons and go up in rank in a totally different field of endeavour. You can
be proud of the uniform you wear knowing what it stands for and what you can
accomplish wearing it.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Duties and Reponsibilities

• Be an active, paying member of your squadron

• Support the organization you just joined. Follow orders from the chain of command and
participate in activities as often as humanly possible.
• Acquire the prescribed uniforms and wear these smartly. Learn the various protocols of
the organization and bring pride to the PCGA as well as the PCG.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group Rewards and Recognition

• The ribbons you see that adorn the chests of your fellow PCGA as representative of the medals
that they would normally get for activities which you have participative in successfully. These
days, instead of the medals, we merely use the ribbons for practical reasons. Memorize what
these ribbons stand for and better still attempt to get as many as you can as a sign of your love
of country and your fellow man. These ribbons are earned and not to be bought for show.

• The other form of reward and recognition you can get is be promoted to the highest rank
possible. To make this possible, not only should you be active within the organization but you
have to learn as much as what is prescribed as minimum knowledge to justify holding a
particular rank in what is called ladderized training process.
 Orientation Manual
VST Group L a d d e r i z e d Tr a i n i n g C h a r t

CAPTAIN
Squadron Director
Deputy Squadron Director
• Administration
Chief of Staff
• Correspondence

TECHINCAL COMPETENCE LEADERSHIP COMPETENCE FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCE

LT COMMANDER
More advanced Strategic

COMMANDER
Technical Program on *PCGA Leadership Making
MAREP, MARSAF, the future • Administration
MARSAR&COMRELCOM *Discipline of Foresight • Correspondence
*Executive Mgt Seminar
•Squadron Dir Seminar
DIVISION COMMANDER / FUNCTIONS HEADS

LIEUTENANT
Functional / Specially Seminars on
*MAREP * Better Understanding Effective Leadership Seminar • Administration
*MARSAF of PCGA vs PCG *Teambuilding
*MARSAR Role • Correspondence
•COMRELCOM •Collaborative Partnership
* PROTOCOL 2 * Communications
DEPUTY DIRS / VICE DIVISION DIRS / FUNCTION HEADS
Basic Seminar on:
•MAREP •Basic Team Leadership
• Administration

ENSIGN
•MARSAR Seminar

LTJG
•MARSAF • Correspondence
•Motivational Seminar
•COMRELCOM
•PROTOCOL •Communications
ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP / PARTICIPATION IN THE SQUADRON

Recruit
E N T R Y: B a s i c P C G A O r i e n t a t i o n S e m i n a r • Administration
• Correspondence
Basic Protocol
VST Group
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Introduction to Protocol

Protocol is the set of established ways by which a uniformed individual is to conduct

himself as a show of respect to the organization and others. In military circles, it is
the recognized and generally accepted system of courtesy.

Protocol reinforces discipline and the chain of command. It is one of the

defining features that highlight the professionalism of a uniformed organization. As
such, it helps foster mutual respect not only among members of the Auxiliary but
between the Auxiliary and other external uniformed organizations, including the
Coast Guard.

It is therefore vital to see protocol not merely as ceremonial tradition but

as a functional means by which to gain cooperation, respect and solidarity.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Appearance

Uniforms

Auxiliarists are authorized to wear Coast Guard Auxiliary uniforms with the
appropriate insignias and with exceptions to differentiate from regular Coast Guard
uniforms.

A complete set of uniforms will include the pershing cap or ball cap. There are
prescribed uniforms for specific occasions. Mostly we have the Service Blue Alpha,
Service Blue Bravo and the Working Blue. At times you may be asked to wear jeans
and blue or a red PCGA t-shirt when this is deemed appropriate. There is also the
PCGA barong or shirt jacket.

Ball caps are normally used with Working Blue. For certain exceptions, you may be
asked to wear the Pershing cap indoors instead. When worn, the cap should be worn
squarely on the head. Not over one ear, not too far back on the head and not too far
forward over the eyes. The lowest part of the seat band should be one finger width
above the eyebrows. When not worn (such as indoors), the cap should be neatly
tucked under the left upper arm, with the peak forward and cap cover away from the
trunk.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Appearance

Grooming

To keep with a clean look approximating the Coast Guard standard, certain grooming
guidelines must be adhered to.

Men should be clean shaven and keep their hair trimmed short. As a
minimum requirement, the hair must not touch the top of the ears and
the top of the collar. Bangs must not touch the eye brows and side burns
must not be longer that the middle portion of the ears. A conservative,
decent and non-obnoxious hair style must be maintained.

Short hair is recommended for women. However, long hair must be tied
in a bun covered with a black hairnet without fancy ribbons or hair clips.
When hair is too short to tie yet too long to be left alone, it should be
kept in place with a headband or some accessory to keep hair neat and
away from the face. A conservative, decent and non-obnoxious hair
style must be maintained.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Saluting

The Proper Salute

Saluting is proper courtesy for Auxiliarists when greeting senior coast guard and
Auxiliary officers, as well as in extending courtesy to commissioned officers of the
Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.

When covered in uniform, the hand salute is correctly

executed by raising the right hand smartly with the upper arm
horizontal (out to the side of the body, not across) and
forearm inclined at forty-five degrees with the hand and wrist
straight. The tip of the forefinger will touch the lower part of
the headdress or forehead, above and slightly to the right, of
the right eye. The thumb and fingers should be extended and
joined; palm down. At the same time, one’s head is turned
toward the person being saluted. To complete the salute, the
arm is dropped to its normal side position and eyes are turned
to the front.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Saluting

When to Salute

• During the ceremony, salute to those wearing a cap and of a higher or superior rank.
• Do not salute a person in civilian dress (royalty excepted). Do not salute if you are
not in complete uniform. Offer a greeting such as “Good morning sir” or “Good
evening ma’am.” If the other person is not in complete uniform but is a senior officer,
salute anyway as a show of respect and courtesy.
• Look to uniform insignia to determine if an officer is of superior rank. If in doubt and
wishing to be considered courteous, then salute as a mark of respect and courtesy.
• As a show of courtesy, initiate a hand salute to commissioned officers.
• The salute must be maintained until it is acknowledged or after the person has
passed or faced away.
• The Officer in Charge of an Honor Guard at a funeral would salute as the casket is
carried past.
• Officers salute during the playing of the National Anthem and the raising of the
National Flag.
• Any member formed up in a group under the command of a senior member would
be brought to attention and only the member in command would salute.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Saluting

• When in incomplete uniform (no head gear when the most senior officer is wearing
one), it is not appropriate to render the salute. An alternative would be to verbalize
your greeting (good morning sir/ma’am) and execute this with a smile. Better still; be
in proper uniform at all times.
• Return any and all salutes given.
• Observe protocol upon boarding and leaving military (navy) and Coast Guard vessels:
When boarding in uniform (but not before sunrise and after sunset), stop before the
start of the gangplank, turn and salute the National Ensign at the stern staff; even if
obscured and not visible. Then proceed to walk toward the ship’s deck and salute the
personnel in charge of the vessel’s quarterdeck, verbally requesting” permission to
come aboard”.
• When departing in uniform, salute the personnel in charge of the quarterdeck and
verbally request “permission to depart”. Upon receiving permission, step onto the
gangplank, turn and salute the National Ensign (but not before sunrise and after
sunset) and then proceed. If not in uniform follow the above procedures, but do not
render salutes.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Maritime Protocol

Aboard Ship

The rule in boarding boats and vehicles is that the senior officer enters last and exits
first. Senior officers are not to be kept waiting. Someone should announce the entry of
the senior officer with “officer aboard”. Upon docking, the junior officer waits till the
senior officer has left. Senior officers usually sit furthest aft. Generally and especially for
enlisted men, do not take seats at the stern unless invited.

Boats take the rank of the highest grade officer on board. When a junior ship passes a
senior ship, the junior boat salutes first.

When aboard a ship and a senior officer approaches step aside and salute. Do not
overtake a senior officer without permission. Call out “By your leave sir/ma’am.”
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Communication

Communication Flow
This diagram presents an example of
the flow of both written and verbal
communications. As you can see,
there is a certain flow that must be
adhered to. One must always keep in
mind and abide by the chain of
command. You cannot simply write to
the national office without going
through your division, squadron and
district directors first.
A rule of thumb is to always go
through your commanding officer.
Your CO will be your means of
communicating to anyone higher as
well as their means of replying to
you.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Communication

Addressing Officers

• Senior officers such as admirals, captains and commanders are addressed by their ranks
“Admiral”, “Captain” and “Commander”.
• If there are officers of the same rank seated or working together, it is proper to address
them by their rank and family name to avoid confusion.
• Junior officers such as Lt. Commanders, Lieutenants, Lieutenant Junior Grades and
Ensigns are addressed as “Mister” or “Miss” with their last name. “Miss Santos” or
“Mister Tan”.
• When addressing a junior officer whose name is not known address them as “Sir” or
“Ma’am”. Midshipmen and cadets are treated similar to that of junior officers.
• Any commanding officer of a ship or station, regardless of rank, is addressed as “Captain”.
Other Captains or Commanders in the same command are addressed by rank and name.
• Officers of the medical or dental corps are addressed as “Doctor” instead of “Mister” or
“Miss”. Chaplains may be addressed as “Chaplain” or “Father”.
• A Chief Petty Officer is addressed as “Chief Petty Officer Ramos” or informally as “Chief
Ramos” or simply “Chief” if you know his name. Master Chief Petty Officers and Senior
Chief Petty Officers as addressed as “Master Chief” or “Senior Chief” respectably.
• Seniors may call juniors by name but not the other way around.
• When on duty in the presence of others, always use the rank and last name.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Communication

External Communications

Communication with other Government Agencies

Auxiliarists shall not communicate with officials of other Government agencies or
members of Congress in the name of the Auxiliary unless the VCO, for National Auxiliary,
or Commander Coast Guard District, for District and Squadron Auxiliaries, determine that
the recommendations or requests are consistent with policies of the Coast Guard and
Auxiliary and grants the Auxiliarist specific permission in advance of the communication.

Private Citizens
The right of Auxiliarists to communicate directly with elected and appointed Government
officials and agencies as private citizens is not restricted. Neither official stationery nor
auxiliary titles shall be used in such communications.

Industry Relations
No undertaking may be made in the name of the auxiliary for any manufacturer, product,
or service by which an endorsement by the Coast Guard or the Auxiliary is stated,
implied, or inferred.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Public Appearances

Functions, Dinners and Meetings

Directors Auxiliary Districts usually have the job of presiding at formal social and
ceremonial functions sponsored by the district and, at times, may be invited to attend
similar functions given by other Auxiliary units or outside organizations. These formal
activities include changes of watch, changes of command, dinners, award banquets,
luncheons and, at times, social gatherings in another’s home.

On occasions when one is a guest, it is customary to personally greet the host and
hostess as soon as possible after arriving. At the conclusion of the function, it is also
common courtesy to personally express appreciation to the host and hostess for being
invited, before departing. When a senior auxiliary leader is present, such as the DAD, ND,
or the Commander Coast Guard District, etc., it is considered proper to delay leaving
until they have paid their respects and departed.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Public Appearances

Receiving Lines and Receptions

If attending a function where a receiving line is established and the time for the
beginning of the function is specified, it is courteous to be present to proceed through
the line at, or immediately after the time indicated. It is discourteous to carry a drink,
cigarette, cigar, etc., when going through the line. It is also a courtesy to other guests,
who may be waiting, not to stop for any extended conversation with any member of the
official party in the receiving line.

Normally, spouses or significant others immediately precede their Auxiliary partner when
couples are going through a receiving line. A clear, distinct introduction is given to the
first official member of the line. This is necessary so that members of the official party
may be introduced as people proceed through the line. Once introduced to the last
person in the line, it is courteous to move some distance away so that other people still
passing through the line are not blocked.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Publications

Publications

An individual serving as an Auxiliarist is prohibited from receiving any compensation for

articles related to the Coast Guard or the Auxiliary which are produced as a result of such
service. Any article written for Auxiliary publications becomes the sole property of such
entity that publishes such work unless intellectual property rights are reserved in writing.
1. National, District, Squadron Publications
Feature articles on auxiliary topics prepared by Auxiliarists for commercial periodicals,
articles for organization’s publications, or Coast Guard internal publications are
encouraged.

Approval
The VCO or the Commander Coast Guard District must approve the article before
publication. Before printing any national Auxiliary publication, all articles and
photographs shall be submitted to the VCO or Commander Coast Guard District, as
appropriate, for approval.

Distribution
The VCO may authorize official business mail privilege, for mailing a national Auxiliary
publication when the contents of the publication are approved.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Publications

2. Websites

Where practical, Auxiliary units are encouraged to create and maintain web sites to
promote auxiliary missions and services to the public, and provide program information
to Auxiliarists. Likewise, Auxiliary Directors are encouraged to create sites that assist their
Auxiliarists and provide program information to Coast Guard units on how to use and
obtain Auxiliary resources within the area of responsibility.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Publications

3. Coast Guard Auxiliary Emblem and Official Seal

The Auxiliary emblem and official seal are separate in design and purpose.

Auxiliary Emblem
The Coast Guard Auxiliary emblem may be used in publications or in association with
authorized articles regarding the auxiliary. Use of the Auxiliary official seal is strictly
prohibited.

Auxiliary Seal
The Coast Guard Auxiliary official seal is authorized for use on official Coast Guard
Auxiliary documents requiring a signature under the seal. It is authorized for official
invitations, auxiliary official stationery, programs, certificates, diplomas, and for display
on Coast Guard Auxiliary exhibits.

The seal may not be reproduced for other purposes, without approval of the VCO via the
ND. The seal shall not be included within the design of any other seal or emblem.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Flag Protocols

Dignity of the Flag

The Philippine National Flag should be displayed only in a manner befitting the National
Emblem. It should not be displayed in a position inferior to any other flag or ensign.
When flown in the Philippines, the Philippine flag takes precedence over all other
national flags. It should not be allowed to fall or lie upon the ground and should always
be flown aloft and free.

The Philippine Flag should not be used to cover a statue, monument or plaque in an
unveiling ceremony. It shouldn’t be used as a table or seat cover or any kind of masking.

When the Philippine Flag is raised, lowered or being carried past in a parade or review, all
should face the flag, remove hats and stand at attention. Salute if in uniform.
 Protocol Manual
VST Group Additional Protocols

• When flown together with foreign flags or pennants, the poles should be of the same
height with the Philippine Flag on the left of an observer facing the flags.
• No flag or pennant should ever be flown above the Philippine flag.
• The flag should never be dipped to any person or object.
• The flag should never be draped over a vehicle of any kind. When displayed on an
automobile, the staff should be affixed firmly to the right fender such that the flag
shall not touch the body of the vehicle
• When used to cover caskets, the flag must be placed such that the white triangle is
set at the head and the blue field covers the right side of the casket. The flag should
not be lowered into the grave or touch the ground but must be solemnly folded and
handed to the heirs of the deceased.

• When the Philippine Congress declares a state of

war, the flag is inverted with the red field on top.
Orientation Manual
VST Group Additional Protocols

PCGA Hymn

Onward we go PCGA
With a commitment of saving lives at sea
Dedicated to service that is true
Making this world safe for me and you
Forward we go, PCGA
Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary
Onward we go, onward we go
Saving lives we always do
Kami ang kabalit ninyo
Lahat ng oras ulan man o bagyo
Handang tumulong sa kapwa Pilipino
PCGA kami’y handang magserbisyo
Sulong kapatid sa PCGA
Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary
Mabuhay tayo, mabuhay tayo
Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary
Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary
Welcome aboard