By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it is in full swing to ensure safety and security in ports amid influx of passengers during lent and summer season.
According to PCG Commandant CG Admiral Artemio Abu, the PCG will go on heightened alert from April 2 to 10 to ensure continued maritime operations and to ascertain safety among travelers.
In addition, K9 units, medical teams, security personnel, harbor patrollers, vessel inspectors, and response groups will be deployed to increase the PCG’s presence in port passenger terminals, as well as in the country’s vast waters to monitor maritime traffic.
“Para maging ligtas ang pagbabakasyon ng mga turista, siniguro natin na well-trained ang mga lifeguard at iba pang first responders na naka-deploy sa mga beach, island resort, at iba pang maritime tourism spot, lalo na sa Visayas at Mindanao,” Abu said.
Abu also said the PCG will be installing first aid and rescue facilities in tourist spots to respond to emergencies.
The PCG noted that it will be working with the Philippine Ports Authority and Maritime Industry Authority to manage sea transport facilities.
Moreover, it said it will be closely coordinating with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and local government units to prevent any form of public security threats.
Meanwhile, Abu stressed that the PCG will continue its oil spill response operations in Oriental Mindoro to help affected residents recover.
“Sa pangunguna ni Incident Commander CG Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla, at katuwang ang U.S. Coast Guard, makakaasa ang ating mga kababayan na tuluy-tuloy ang ating offshore at shoreline response operations, lalo na sa Naujan, Polan, at Bulalacao,” said Abu. – cf
