THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) yesterday said it will be on heightened alert starting Thursday next week as part of “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 22” aimed at ensuring safe sea travel during the Christmas season.
Coast Guard commandant Adm. Artemio Abu said some 25,000 personnel will be deployed during the period of heightened alert which will last until January 7.
Abu said the PCG will be on heightened alert due to anticipated increase of persons who will take sea transport during the Yuletide season.
“When the Philippine Coast Guard is on heightened alert, the 25,000-strong Coast Guard all over the country is going to be there, all of them will be on heightened alert,” said Abu.
“They are going to work, strategically deployed all over the country… We will be in areas where the service of Coast Guard is needed,” added Abu.
PCG communications officer Joy Gumatay said the Coast Guard will implement a “no leave policy,” meaning PCG personnel will not be allowed to go on leave, during the period.
In a statement, the PCG said the declaration of the heightened alert status is meant to “ensure that the riding public will have safe, secure, convenient and comfortable sea travel during the holiday season.”
Abu said the PCG will be coordinating with shipowners to remind them to “ensure the seaworthiness of their vessels” to prevent mishaps.
He also appealed to the public to make proper planning “so their travel will be safe, convenient and secure.”
Nevertheless, Abu said: “The Philippine Coast Guard will be there to help them.”
