The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has declared heightened alert status on Monday, July 24, the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.

In a statement, it said that PCG Districts, Stations, at Substations in the National Capital Region (NCR) - Central Luzon, Northeastern Luzon, Northwestern Luzon, Southern Tagalog, and Bicol will go on heightened alert to guarantee the peace and security during SONA day.

"Katuwang ang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Philippine National Police (PNP), magpapakalat ang PCG ng mga security personnel, K9 units, at medical teams sa mga kritikal na lugar sa NCR kaugnay ng SONA 2023," it said.

The Coast Guard said this is also their preparation for the events that may transpire during the three-day transportation strike to be launched by MANIBELA and the possible impacts of the severe tropical storm (STS) Egay in the five regions.

PCG noted that deployable response groups (DRGs) are on standby for evacuation and rescue operation in provinces that may be hit by STS Egay.

It added that it is now coordinating with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) for the safety of passengers and sea travels in the next coming days.

“Sa tulong ng PCG Auxiliary (PCGA), nagsisimula na rin ang preparasyon ng mga family food packs at hygiene kits na ipapamahagi sa mga pamilyang maaapektuhan ng bagyo,” PCG said.

Based on the latest update from PAGASA as of Sunday, STS Egay may develop into a typhoon in the next 24 hours and may become a super typhoon by Tuesday, July 26.

PAGASA said Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) may be hoisted in some areas of Bicol Region and Eastern Visayas.