By Myris Lee
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will deploy more than 100 security personnel in various strategic areas to ensure peace and order during the inauguration of president-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in Manila on June 30.
PCG Commandant CG Admiral Artemio Abu said the agency was tapped by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to reinforce the implementation of measures to safeguard the public on the first day of the Marcos administration.
“We will deploy assets and personnel to augment the Task Group Maritime Security-[National Capital Region] Central Luzon that is in charge of ensuring maritime security and maritime safety during the inauguration of the newly-elected Chief Executive of the Philippines,” Abu said.
PCG land vehicles will be dispatched to amplify the road patrols that will manage the traffic flow in Manila.
Meanwhile, the PCG fleet will also dispatch hull inflatable boats, aluminum boats, and personal watercraft to intensify the maritime patrol in the vicinity waters off Manila Bay and Pasig River.
“We are now finalizing guidelines and protocols to minimize, if not prevent, maritime incidents that may arise due to threat groups that intend to disrupt the inauguration ceremony or endanger the lives of the general public,” Abu said.
The PCG will also form a medical team to uphold public health and safety and Coast Guard ambulance to provide first aid and other immediate medical assistance to the general public.
“Rest assured that the PCG will work side by side with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and other concerned government agencies to realize a safe, secure, and peaceful assumption of the 17th President of the Republic of the Philippines,” he added. – gb
