DOTr orders PCG to place all forces on heightened alert for Christmas
Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has ordered the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to place all its forces on heightened alert status as part of the security measures for the Yuletide season following the bomb attack in Marawi City on Dec. 3.
Bautista specifically tasked PCG commandant Ronnie Gil Gavan to implement additional security measures starting Dec. 15 when the influx of passengers in all ports starts.
“As early as December 15, Coast Guardians in 15 PCG Districts nationwide shall intensify the Coast Guard presence and visibility,” said Bautista.
“The PCG shall remain on heightened alert until January 8 of next year targeting zero maritime incidents within this critical period,” he added.
Bautista said the proactive measures he ordered includes intensified intelligence operations, stricter pre-departure inspections onboard passenger and cargo vessels, 24/7 K9 paneling within the port vicinity, additional sea marshal deployment, and expanded coastal security patrols should be implemented by the PCG.
He said PCG maritime assets such as marine vessels and aerial assets will be available for deployment.
“District, Station, and Sub-Station Commanders shall also coordinate regularly with port authorities, shipping operators, local government units, law enforcement agencies, and other maritime stakeholders to uphold the safety of lives at sea and sustain efficient maritime operations amid the holiday season,” the DOTr chief said.