The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) should ensure that maritime transportation should be safe and convenient for all Filipinos in adherence to the mandate handed down by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
This was the directive relayed to the Coast Guard leadership by DOTr Undersecretary for Maritime Elmer Sarmiento when he visited the PCG National Headquarters in Port Area, Manila on Thursday, August 18.
Admiral Artemio Abu, PCG commandant, presented to Sarmiento the organization's personnel, assets, and equipment for upholding maritime law enforcement, maritime security, maritime safety, maritime search and rescue, and marine environmental protection.
Aside from the K9 teams that augment security measures in various transport hubs across the country, the PCG also showcased its deployable response groups (DRGs) and quick response teams (QRTs) that are activated in times of calamities and emergencies.
Search and rescue (SAR) gears and assets were also exhibited to highlight the PCG's active role during humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.
Sarmiento also visited BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702), one of the two largest and most advanced multi-role response vessels of the Coast Guard.
Moreover, Abu escorted Sarmiento to the Cunanan Wharf in Port Area where the Coast Guard Aviation Force (CGAF) prepared one of its Airbus H145 light twin-engine helicopters for inspection.
“ the mandate of President Ferdinand Marcos and DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, the transportation must be safe and convenient, not only for the passengers but also shipping,” Sarmiento said.
“ affordability; our people must pay reasonable fees. And lastly, our Secretary always mentions that we must attain global standards," he added.
Sarmiento represented Secretary Bautista who was supposed to visit the PCG headquarters but had to beg off due to a Cabinet meeting with Marcos.