Coast Guard ready for influx of travelers this Holy Week

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is ready for the expected influx of travelers during the Holy Week break.

PCG commandant Rear Admiral Rodolfo Isorena has ordered all officials and personnel of the agency to beef up security measures at all ports and ferry terminals in the country.

Coast Guard units were instructed to monitor maritime activities 24/7 and ensure that all PCG personnel are prepared to respond to any maritime incident.

Isorena directed ship inspectors and Coast Guard K-9 teams to be vigilant in checking the belongings of passengers.

He also ordered PCG personnel to strictly inspect sea vessels to ensure their seaworthiness and prevent overloading.

He said passengers should be at the port at least three hours before departure time to avoid delays and inconveniences.

Isorena said passenger assistance booths will be manned by teams from the PCG, Department of Transportation and Communications, Philippine Ports Authority, Maritime Industry Authority, and the PCG Auxiliary in coordination with the Philippine National Police.