PCG: Cargo drivers don’t need to pay us

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard is reminding cargo truck drivers and operators not to pay anything to PCG personnel assigned in different ports before boarding the vessels.

PCG Cebu Station Commander Weniel Azcuna made the reminder after complaints of some truck drivers and operators that PCG personnel collect money before cargo trucks are allowed to board the vessels.

 PCG personnel at the Cebu ports allegedly ask the amount ranging from P100 to P1,000, depending on the kind of cargo.

 Azcuna clarified that PCG is not mandated to collect payments, but truckers have to pay to the shipping companies and to the Cebu Port Authority for the use of the port facilities.

 “They can call me anytime kung dunay ingon ana,” Azcuna told The Freeman as he assured to check the allegations and to police their own ranks.

 Azcuna said they don’t even inspect cargoes, except for random inspections should there be alarm from the police, such as carnapped vehicles, to ensure cargoes that will be shipped are not dangerous.

 He said their office only issue clearances for vessels to navigate after the ship captain presents to them the manifest declaring the passengers and the cargoes.

 PCGs in Cebu only have around 70 personnel assigned to 13 CG sub-stations in the whole province of Cebu.

 The  PCG is an armed and uniformed service tasked primarily with enforcing laws within Philippine waters, conducting maritime security operations, safeguarding life and property at sea, and protecting marine environment and resources; similar to coast guards around the world. —(FREEMAN)