Philippine Coast Guard bolsters Holy Week security

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – To bolster the safety of travelers, 111 personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Northern Negros Occidental have been stationed at various seaports for the duration of Holy Week.

The deployment encompasses a diverse group including 18 station personnel, 10 from the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Bacolod, six from the Special Operating Unit, teams from K9 Bacolod and Northern Negros Occidental, 21 Coast Guard auxiliaries, and 49 Naval Marine Reservists.

PCG Commander Paterno Belarmino Jr. indicated that they are on a heightened alert from March 22 to April 2 in observance of the Lenten Season.

Belarmino noted that the PCG has proactively devised a security and deployment strategy in anticipation of the surge of passengers during the upcoming long weekend.

In preparation, inspections have been carried out at various seaports to verify the emergency response readiness of personnel and equipment, Belarmino confirmed.

They are preparing for the expected increase in passenger traffic starting Thursday, March 28, through the weekend.

In conjunction with the PCG’s efforts, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Bacolod has also stationed personnel to aid in the enforcement of law and order throughout Holy Week.

The strategic positioning of forces covers bus terminals, churches, and the port operated by the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. (Bredco).