Philippine Coast Guard gears up for Lent, summer season

All Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) units nationwide were directed to prepare their personnel, land vehicles, and floating assets for deployment in anticipation of an increase in maritime-related activities during the Lenten and summer seasons.

PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu said all the agency’s floating assets and equipment must be at the highest level of preparedness to respond properly to possible emergencies at sea.

He added that additional K9 units, medical teams, and deployable response groups on major seaports should also be dispatched to increase Coast Guard visibility, manage port passengers, and oversee maritime traffic.

"This is our commitment to the Filipino nation — that the PCG is here to enforce regulations for the promotion, safety of life and properties at sea. This is our responsibility in service to humanity," said Abu.

To aid in the enforcement of maritime safety and security measures, Abu also ordered the deployment of additional harbor and coastal patrollers that would establish and maintain systematized operations of sea transport facilities.

"PCG officers and personnel have also been directed to extend assistance to the riding public and ensure their compliance with the minimum public health standards," Abu said.

"District Commanders have been tasked to augment personnel and operational requirements of PCG stations in major seaports and tourist destinations such as Boracay, Palawan, Coron, Cebu, and Bohol," he added.

Further, Abu said PCG units shall also ensure the 24/7 availability of a sufficient number of lifeguards, rescue equipment, and first aid facilities in major tourist destinations.

Maritime advisories and notices to stakeholders should also be communicated promptly through information drives and other available communication platforms. — DVM, GMA News