Philippine coast guards take training classes in China

Philippine coast guard officers take training classes at the China Maritime Police Academy on May 5, 2017. The Chinese Coast Guard invites 20 young Philippine officers to take a 10-day training program in China. [Photo: China Plus/Li Jin]

Coast Guard personnel from the Philippines are taking part in a 10-day training program in China.

Philippine coast guard officers take training classes at the China Maritime Police Academy on May 5, 2017. The Chinese Coast Guard invites 20 young Philippine officers to take a 10-day training program in China. [Photo: China Plus/Li Jin]

Invited by the Chinese Coast Guard, the 20 young Philippine officers are taking courses covering a variety of areas, including maritime expressions and communication, ship handling and boarding, as well as diving and marine engineering.

Courses involving distinct Chinese characteristics, such as Tai Chi, are also being held.

Philippine coast guard officers take training classes at the China Maritime Police Academy on May 5, 2017. The Chinese Coast Guard invites 20 young Philippine officers to take a 10-day training program in China. [Photo: China Plus/Li Jin]

Training through the China Maritime Police Academy will run until May 15.

Philippine coast guard officers take training classes at the China Maritime Police Academy on May 5, 2017. The Chinese Coast Guard invites 20 young Philippine officers to take a 10-day training program in China. [Photo: China Plus/Li Jin]

The joint training is part of a broader attempt by China and the Philippines to enhance maritime cooperation.

China and the Philippines established the Joint Coast Guard Committee on Maritime Cooperation in February.

A Chinese instructor communicates with Philippine coast guard officers during training courses on May 5, 2017.  The Chinese Coast Guard invites 20 young Philippine officers to take a 10-day training program in China. [Photo: China Plus/Li Jin]