The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Friday, Dec. 8, reported being on heightened alert in seaports to guarantee the safety of passengers during the holiday season.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) secretary Jaime Bautista ordered the increase of Coast Guard personnel visibility starting December 15 to January 8 following the bomb attack at the Mindanao State University (MSU) last week.

“As early as December 15, Coast Guardians in 15 PCG Districts nationwide shall intensify the Coast Guard presence and visibility,” Transport Secretary Bautista told PCG Commandant Ronnie Gil Gavan.

“The PCG shall remain on heightened alert until January 8 of next year targeting ‘zero maritime incidents’ within this critical period,” he added.

Bautista said the PCG should implement intensified security measures, such as intensified intelligence operations, stricter pre-departure inspections onboard passenger and cargo vessels, 24/7 K9 paneling within the port vicinity, additional sea marshal deployment, and expanded coastal security patrols.

“District, Station, and Sub-Station Commanders shall also coordinate regularly with port authorities, shipping operators, local government units, law enforcement agencies, and other maritime stakeholders to uphold the safety of lives at sea and sustain efficient maritime operations amid the holiday season,” he said.

The transport chief noted that marine vessels and aerial assets would be available for deployment.