Coast Guard to start ‘Undas’ alert

MANILA, Philippines - For two weeks starting Oct. 24, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will be on alert as the number of sea travelers is expected to increase for the All Saints’ and Souls’ Days celebration.

PCG spokesman Commander Armand Balilo said yesterday they will implement “Oplan Ligtas Undas 2014” from Oct. 24 to Nov. 5. 

During this period, the PCG expects an increase in the number of sea travelers who want to spend the holidays in the provinces.

Balilo said the exodus would start on Oct. 24, as apart from students, workers may also be going home. 

The PCG – which has 12 districts, 74 stations and more than 260 detachments nationwide – has also taken into consideration that the holidays fall on a Saturday and Sunday.

It is working with the Maritime Industry Authority and the Philippine Ports Authority for the reactivation of passenger assistance centers at seaports with medical personnel ready to respond to emergencies. 

“The usual directive is to ready rescue teams, quick reaction teams and sea marshals to ensure that the ports are safe and secured,” Balilo said.

The PCG will also deploy a K-9 team to detect drugs and explosives, and to assist in security procedures.