ILOILO City – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has mobilized some 130 personnel to secure seaports here and in Iloilo province as part of the security measures for the Dinagyang Festival.
The mobilization started yesterday.
The goal is to stop the entry of illegal drugs and firearms, and criminals.
The two-day highlights of Dinagyang’s 51st edition are on Jan. 26 (Kasadyahan cultural contest) and Jan. 27 (ati-ati tribes competition).
According to Lieutenant Commander Rodolfo Dela Peña of PCG-Iloilo station, of particular concern are the Port of Dumangas in Dumangas, Iloilo and three wharves in Iloilo City (in Lapuz district, Iloilo Ferry Terminal / Parola in Barangay Ortiz, City Proper).
The wharf in Lapuz services fast crafts plying the Iloilo City – Bacolod City route and vice versa.
The Parola and Ortiz wharves, on the other hand, cater to motorboats plying the Iloilo City – Guimaras routes and vice versa.
There will be random inspection of the wharves. Dogs trained to detect illegal drugs and explosives would be tapped.
The coastguards are also tasked to help passengers seeking assistance. Help desks would be set up.
According to Dela Peña, personnel of the Philippine Ports Authority, Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine National Police, and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency could also be augmenting security measures in seaports.
At Muelle Loney and Fort San Pedro here, PCG would be stationing “floating assets” (quick response boats).
The coastguard deployment in seaports would be until Feb. 1./PN
