The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is working closely with the local government units (LGUs) in the areas affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine to carry out relief and rescue operations.
"Ang coast guard ay nag-o-operate as part ng collective team ng mga local disaster risk reduction management offices. Sila ang nagmamando kung saan pupunta ang teams natin para hindi magulo," PCG Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gavan said in an exclusive interview with DZRH for Damdaming Bayan on Thursday.
"Dito sa national headquarters, tayo lang po ay nagpo-provide ng support sa kanila base na rin sa mga direktiba ng NDRRMC," he added.
He stated that the government is unified in its actions, allowing local government units (LGUs) to lead the response efforts in designated communities.
Additionally, Gavan noted that the BRP Gabriela Silang, loaded with 50 tons of relief goods from the DSWD and bound for Batanes, has been unable to set sail due to the rough sea conditions.
"Yung atin pong Philippine Coast Guard auxiliary ay tumutulong din," said Gavan.
The PCG is currently focusing on Bicol, which has been heavily impacted by flooding. To date, more than 15,000 individuals have reportedly been rescued in the region.
Due to the widespread impact of the storm, the neighboring Coast Guard districts are reportedly collaborating with one another.
"Ang coast guard district Southern Tagalog for example, nagpadala ng teams niya papunta po ng Camarines Sur, under po ‘yun ng Coast Guard District Bicol, tina-try po nilang mapasok kahit na may mga areas sa daan na medyo naka-block, tina-try po nilang makag-augment," Gavan stated.
Furthermore, Gavan reported that no major maritime incidents have been recorded nationwide. However, there have been several drowning incidents, including one missing fisherman in La Union.
This also includes two ships that ran aground at the Port of Batangas, one of which has a puncture and is leaking diesel. However, they stated that there is no cause for concern, as the diesel will quickly evaporate.
Meanwhile, the PCG is monitoring 117 ports. As of the last report last night, there are 5,130 stranded passengers, along with 1,910 rolling cargoes and approximately 145 stranded vessels, as well as a number of small boats.
