The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has ordered its units in Surigao del Norte to implement heightened security measures among travelers as the province was placed under stricter protocols to prevent the spread of Delta variant of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
PCG Surigao del Norte Station Commander Elaine Pangilinan directed Coast Guard personnel last Wednesday, Aug. 11, to verify document requirements and implement strict security protocols for authorized passengers and rolling cargoes arriving at Surigao Baseport and Lipata Port.
This came as the provincial government of Surigao del Norte implemented stricter temporary measures for travelers going or passing through the province. It also prohibited face-to-face meetings, trainings, and seminars based on Executive Order No. 21-029 series of 2021.
The executive order imposed the temporary suspension of air and sea travel for Surigao del Norte passengers coming from Luzon and Visayas excluding the domestic air and sea trips of cargoes starting on Wednesday until Aug. 22.
Pangilinan reminded shipping companies to adhere to the new executive order to avoid sanctions in accordance with the rules and regulations.
“The PCG in Surigao del Norte will rigorously enforce the executive orders, which purpose is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 particularly Delta variant to the province of Surigao del Norte in order to protect the health and lives of every Surigaonons,” Pangilinan added.
Personnel from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Philippine National Police (PNP), and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) of Surigao City also rendered assistance in inspecting passengers at Surigao Baseport and Lipata Port.