As the Holy Week exodus began, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has ramped up its security operations in ports and tourist hubs across the country to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience for travelers.

In a Malacañang press briefing on Tuesday, PCG Deputy Spokesperson Commander Michael John Encina said their agency has raised its alert status to “heightened alert” and mobilized 17,000 personnel to conduct pre-departure and resort inspections.

Encina said they also deployed Coast Guard Auxiliaries in Malasakit Help Desks and K-9 units as part of the security measures in ports and resorts.

Encina said the PCG is conducting the security measures in close coordination with the local government units (LGUs), municipal and city Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices, and coastal barangays.

“So, malawak po ang ginagawa ng PCG ngayon at paghahanda upang ma-ensure at matiyak po natin na ang Mahal na Araw ay magiging safe and secure sa ating mga bakasyunista at turista,” he said.

Encina said beach resorts and other recreational areas are undergoing safety checks to ensure they have authorized lifeguards with medical clinics and first aid responders.

“Most importantly iyong ating pong information dissemination, so ang coast guard station and substations po natin, personnel ay umiikot dito po sa ating mga major beach areas and beach resorts para po ma-inform sila na may coast guard po na agad-agaran magpo-provide ng necessary assistance once kailanganin po ng ating mga turista, ” Encina said.

The PCG has placed its districts, stations, and sub-stations on heightened alert from April 13 to April 20 to manage the influx of port passengers.

The seafaring public can coordinate with the PCG through its official Facebook page or the Coast Guard Public Affairs Service (0927-560-7729) for inquiries, concerns, and clarifications regarding sea travel protocols and regulations during the Holy Week. | PND