PCG tightens ports security on Undas
MANILA, Oct. 30 (PIA)—Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) chief Vice Admiral Joel Garcia directed all coast guard units to tighten security and safety measures on all ports and ferry terminals nationwide on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
“I hereby directed all PCG units to brace up security and safety measures on all ports and ferry terminals this All Saints’ Day to ensure the orderly operation of sea transport facilities safe/convenient travel of the seafaring public and even the safety and security of resort visitors," said Garcia.
The coast guard chief ensured that all their available assets are strategically located in ports nationwide.
“We have to sail ships including one 55-meter multi-mission offshore vessels, nine 44-meter multi role response vessels, six 30-meter monitoring control surveillance vessels, two 35-meter search and rescue vessels, three 24-meter fast patrol boats aside from the other small crafts including two 12-meter high speed boats, 10 seven-meter rigid hull inflatable boats, aluminum boats and rubber boats,” Garcia said.
“The Command is also making sure to monitor critical ports especially in the western and eastern seaboard of the country," Garcia added.
Last Monday, PCG ships with personnel from K9, Special Operations Force, Medical teams, Marine Environmental Protection Command, Coast Guard Weapons Communications, Electronics and Information System and deployable response group were sent off to augment personnel in Southern Luzon, Bicol and Visayas region.
Garcia also said that all coast guard districts have corresponding teams, Special Operations Forces, Harbor Patrols and Ship Inspectors stationed in ports.
All units are directed to exercise extra vigilance in inspecting passengers and luggages to ascertain travel safety and security. There also medical teams ready to provide assistance in case of emergency.
“Beaches are also monitored by coastal security patrol teams and rescue personnel to augment lifeguards," he further said.
PCG personnel, together with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Office of the Transport Security (OTS), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) also man ‘Malasakit’ Help Desks stationed in all major seaports.
The help desk is part of the directive of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade to provide comfortable and safe transport to all seagoing public through mobility of sea transport. (PIA-NCR/PCG)
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