On May 30 2009 about 12:45 in the afternoon, a certain Cesar Sator, Brgy Councilor of Brgy Ibaba West, Calapan City appeared to Coast Guard Station Batangas and reported that he received a cell phone call from Mrs Julieta Amuguis informing that their Motor Banca encountered engine trouble.

Initial investigation conducted by CGS Batangas revealed that unnamed Motor Banca with five (5) passengers onboard departed Brgy Ibaba West, Calapan City and while enroute to Maricaban, Batangas the motor banca encountered engine trouble at the vicinity waters of Pulong Balahibo, Batangas that force them to request for assistance.

Upon receipt of the report, immediately Coast Guard Station Batangas directed Coast Guard Detachment Puerto Galera to conduct Search and Rescue operation and also advices motor bancas and passing vessels in the said area to render assistance if the troubled bancas seen in the area

About 1:25 noon same day, Coast Guard District Southern Luzon Commander directed Search and Rescue Vessel-3502 of the Philippine Coast Guard with Coast Guard Divers to conduct Search and Rescue operation to the subject distress Motor Banca.Upon reaching the area Search and Rescue Vessel-3502 sighted the said distress Motor Banca and immediately launch rubber boat to rescue the five (5) passengers of subject Motor Banca. About 3:00 pm, Search and Rescue Vessel-3502 of the Philippine Coast Guard departed at said vicinity enroute to Batangas Port together with the five (5) survivors namely:

1. Ronaldo Mayordo Sr 52 y/o
2. Emerly C Mayordo 49 y/o
3. Julieta Amuguis 55 y/o
4. Carlito Amuguis 58 y/o
5. Aries Amuguis 20 y/o

Upon the arrival of the survivors to the port of batangas the following survivors were
immediately check by the Coast Guard Medical for their health status and where given an accomodation for their primary needs.the five survivors are in good condition and assisted by the Coast Guard personnel going back to their respective home.

Meanwhile, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has suspended the operation of all seven (7) motor bancas under the Ylagan Shipping Lines water Transport Company namely: Motor Banca Commando 4, 7, 8, and 9, Motor Banca Lady Rhealine, Motor Banca Lady Rhelaine Express and Motor Banca After Dark. They will be brought to Minolo Port, Peurto Galera, Orriental Mindoro for inspection by MARINA and all her trips are temporarily suspended.

LIST OF SURVIVORS:

CASUALTIES:

CREW:

RECAPITULATION:

Tomorrow, the Philippine Coast Guard will conduct the graduation ceremonies for the Coast Guard Officer’s Course Class 08-09 (CGOC CL 09-08) and Coast Guardman’s Course Class 17-08 (CGMC CL 17-08) at Coast Guard Training Facility, Coast Guard Base Taguig at 8:30am. The Guest of Honor for the event will be DOTC Undersecretary for Marine Transportation, Hon Thompson C Lantion.

According to ADMIRAL WILFREDO D TAMAYO PCG, the PCG Commandant, forty three (43) graduates of CGOC CL 09-08 composed of 23 males and 20 females who will carry the rank of Probationary Ensign while the 365 Enlisted Men, 221 Apprentice Seamen and 144 Apprentice Seawomen will graduate after seven (7) months of hardwork and training which initially began in Sangley Point, Cavite City. The training was later moved to the newly inaugurated Coast Guard Training Facility at Coast Guard Base Taguig. The 408 graduates will be added to the evergrowing guardians of our coasts and seas. It is noteworthy that while the AFP and the PNP has five to six percent female personnel, the PCG has around 8.6 percent female population.

The training involved physical, emotional and psychological development, preparing the new graduates for the coast guard world of work. It included shipboard familiarization in which trainees were immersed in the daily operations of a Coast Guard vessel. The CGOC CL 09-08 had two months training aboard BRP Pampanga (SARV-003), and the female CGMC aboard BRP San Juan (SARV-001), while the male CGMC were trained aboard BRP Kalinga (89) and BRP Corregidor (891).

A greater challenge awaits the fresh graduates as they will soon have the option to specialize in their chosen field of coast guard service. They may opt to join the coast guard fleet, air group, the special operations group, the K-9 unit, marine environmental protection unit, maritime safety services command, medical/dental service, or in the operational areas of Coast Guard Districts/Stations/Detachments among others. These men and women will be a great addition to the PCG men and women who are committed to serve our nation by ensuring safe, clean, and secure marine environment.

This Monday’s ceremonies will also be the convening of the next batch for CGOC Class 10-09 and CGMC Class 18-09. According to ADMIRAL TAMAYO, it is expected that about fifty (50) new recruits will be trained to become officers and around 400 to become enlisted personnel. This is part of the continuing programme of the PCG to increase the number of personnel to the desired 25,000 t0 36,000 from its present strength of almost 5,000.

The activity was conducted through a series of lectures rendered by well known personalities who emphasized on the importance of having knowledge on basic life saving techniques, how to conduct water surface search and rescue, and procedures on cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. Lectures were given by PO1 Bartolome Villanueva PCG, Detachment Commander of Coast Guard Detachment Calatagan, ENS ENRICO LIMUECO PCGA, Mr Jessie Delos Reyes of FARMC and Mr Ryan Wiston, a US National and environmental advocate, who lectured and demonstrated proper procedures on life saving. Dr Vicente Caisip and Mr Execquiel Bunuan, the host, gave further comments on CPR. Among the 29 participants, however, only 13 were accredited by the CGS Batangas as qualified lifeguards while the others were required to have more training.

As a positive feedback, the activity prompted more resort owners to stage their own lifeguard training and signified to CGS Batangas to host the training. CGS Batangas on the other hand, has expressed its appreciation for those who actively participated and announced to schedule training by the end of May.

The Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) will be holding its 25th Annual National Convention on 21-23 May 2009 with the theme: “PCGA: A New Era of Commitment and Unity”. It will be held in Bacolod Pavilion Resort Hotel, Reclamation Area, Bacolod City. This convention will be hosted by Coast Guard Auxiliary District Western Visayas and 602nd PCGA Squadron (Bacolod Squadron).

This three-day activity is highlighted by the workshops on Maritime Search and Rescue; Marine Environmental Protection; Maritime Safety; and Maritime Community Relations. The workshop will be composed of about five hundred (500) PCGA volunteers, PCG District and Major Unit Commanders and Central Staff of Headquarters Philippine Coast Guard. Honorable Leandro R Mendoza, Sen. Chiz Escudero, Cong Monico O. Fuentevella of Lone District of Bacolod and Admiral WILFREDO D TAMAYO are the expected guests for this Annual National Convention.

PCGA is a volunteer civilian organization established by the Philippine Coast Guard initialy for the purpose of assisting in the conduct of search and rescue as most of its first members were owners of boats and yachts. Boat safety has also been a concern intended to be addressed by its creation. Presently, the PCGA is headed by its Commander, Vice Admiral Eduardo R Alvarez PCGA. It has eventually expanded and is now a big organization with various activities aimed at assisting the PCG in promoting maritime safety, search and rescue, marine environmental protection and preservation, youth development and humanitarian service. It has now 10 operating Auxiliary Districts patterned after the existing PCG set up.

Yesterday, the 11th Founding Anniversary of the Coast Guard Air Group (CGAG) was commemorated at DOTC Hangar, Domestic Airport Complex, Pasay City. It is befiting to impart the ten noble years of CGAG to the men and women who have made CGAG what they are today. As we look back to what has been done to see the success of the Group in sustaining a safety record of 4,006 accident - free days today and still counting is because of the unremitting ‘safety culture’ of every member of the Group from the maintenance and ground support personnel to flight crews and pilots.

For the record, CGAG has logged an accumuluted flying time of more than 3648 + 20 hours for the past decade. From May 2008 to date alone, CGAG has logged 480 + 45 total flying time. In terms of nautical miles, they already covered 450,450 nautical miles over 2,965,962 sq kms maritime jurisdiction of the entire archipelago (350 + 20 hours for PCG Islander and 100 + 30 hours for PCG Helo). Moreover, they have also conducted more than 1,900 different sorties/missions out of total accident free-days, be it maritime search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, maritime safety administration, marine environmental protection, maritime surveillance and patrol, jibe maintenance and training flight, command control missions and medical evacuation.

Among others, CGAG have been involved in numerous Search and Rescue Operations utilizing Helicopter and Islander in the missing and reported sunken reported sunken MV Jinshan at the vicinity of Cape Bojeador; capsized vessel in Itbayat, Batanes; MBCA Mae Jan at Barangay Pallok, Ballesteros Cagayan; MV Pacific at the vicinity Roxas; MV Lourdes and the resulting efforts for the distressed SARV 3504 BRP Davao del Norte, and of course the catastrophic MV Princess of Stars in Romblon and for the missing Philippine Air Force S-211 in Palawan and the C-130 aircraft vicinity in Davao Gulf.

CGAG also conducted six (6) medical evacuations to persons suffering from pains either aboardship or at land for this year alone and also supported the PGMA Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO) caravan movement in Surigao, and the Visayas, respectively as well as ferry medical team of hyperbaric doctors to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

To improve on the interoparability among local and foreign agencies and other Coast Guard organizations, CGAG took part on the CARAT Exercise 2008, PASSEX with Indian Coast Guard, Maritime Law Enforcement Exercises, Anti-Terrorism Demonstrations/Exercises, among others. Recently, CGAG has actively joined the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s SAREX at the Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

Although CGAG has limited flight capability due to logistical and operational requirements, CGAG has diverted and maximixed every opportunity to focus also on training requirements particularly for those aspiring pilots. That is why, instead of conducting routine maintenance flights, we make sure that the primary mission is to conduct training flight jibed maintenance flight missions. The profiency of aspiring pilots is ensured by the continuous training of the officers through the leadership of the Command and Check out Pilot COMMO AARON T RECONQUISTA PCG, Helicopter Instructor Pilot LCDR TITO ALVIN G ANDAL PCG, Safety Pilot and Instructor LCDRJOHN B ESPLANA PCG, and Fixed Wing Instructor Pilot LTJG REIMOND M SANTOS PCG.

On or about 3:15 AM of 15 May 2009, while MCS 3005 under the command of LCDR Genito B Basilio PCG was patrolling the waters of Camiguin and Babuyan Claro Islands. MCS 3005 spotted on radar a surface contact dead on water at latitude 19 degrees, 31.82 minutes North , longitude 122 degrees 20.56 minutes East or at vicinity 19.8 NM East of Babuyan Claro, Cagayan. MCS-3005 approached said contact in a discreet manner to verify same. When range of contact was closing at 5 nautical mile, MCS 3005 positively identified the contact to be a Taiwanese Fishing Boat. Immediately, the commanding officer directed MCS-3005 and headed straight towards said fishing boat which tried to flee but later stopped at latitude 19 degrees 31.79 minutes North, longitude 122 degrees 20.32 minutes East after a brief chase which lasted until about 4:50 AM of same date.

On or about 09:45 AM of 15 May 2009, MCS 3005 allowed the apprehended Taiwanese Fishing Boat identified as Cing Hong Cheng 22, with a bow number CT4-2006 and body nr BJ4006, to retrieve her long lines and radar buoys before taking over said Taiwanese Fishing Boat with prize crew of four (4) PCG personnel and one (1) BFAR personnel while en route Port Irene, Sta Ana, Cagayan. Initial investigation revealed that the Taiwanese Fishing Boat Cing Hong Cheng 22 is registered at Kaohsiung, China and manned by two (2) Filipinos identified as certain Lucrisio B Codilla and Felix R Sesalado, three (3) Taiwanese identified as Lin Ming Shen, Lin Ming Yueh and Chern Wen and three (3) Chinese identified as Li Pen Khon, Li Pen Que and Li Kho Kon.

On several occasions, the chief engineer of apprehended Taiwanese Fishing Boat tried to sabotage the engine to delay or stop and prevent it from reaching Port Irene. While at latitude 19 degrees 33.1 minutes North, longitude 122 degrees 13.09 minutes East prize crew reported that the main engine of Taiwanese Fishing Boat has ceased operating. MCS 3005 endeavored to tow said Taiwanese Fishing Boat, however upon inspection at the engine room it was found out that the fuel injector pump of main engine was loosened. The problem was fixed and the towing operation was terminated and said Taiwanese Fishing Boat continues to proceed using her own propulsion en route to Port Irene. On or about 12:20 PM of 15 May 2009, the chief engineer tried to cut off the cooling line of the radiator to prevent the apprehended boat to proceed. The prize crew then maintained a taut watch on the Taiwanese Fishing Boat crew to prevent any further act of sabotage while said Taiwanese Fishing Boat steamed en route to Port Irene while being escorted by MCS 3005. On or about 22:25 PM of 15 May 09, MCS 3005 with the apprehended Taiwanese Fishing Boat safely arrived at Port Irene. Investigation will be carried out for filing of appropriate charges against the apprehended crew of the Taiwanese Fishing Boat.

Nasakote ng mga tauhan ng Philippine Coast Guard nitong nakaraang martes ang isang puting Taiwanese fishing vessel na ginagamit sa poaching o ilegal na pangingisda ng mga dayuhan sa bandang Sta. Ana, Cagayan sa may hilagang bahagi ng bansa.

Pabalik na ang Monitoring Control and Surveillance (MCS) 3001, ang barko ng BFAR na ginagamit ng Coast Guard, papuntang Port Irene, Sta. Ana, Cagayan ng masabat nila ang Taiwanese na barko habang aktong nangingisda sa layong tatlong milya mula sa silangang bahagi ng Sta. Ana, Cagayan.

Kagyat na hinabol ang Taiwanese na barko ng ito ay magtangkang tumakas at napilitang huminto ng paputukan ng warning shot ng mga tauhan ng Coast Guard.

Lulan ng nahuling Taiwanese na barko ang sampung tripulante na kinabibilangan ng dalawang Taiwanese at walong Indonesian. Sa inspeksyon na isinagawa, nakita sa loob ng barko ang ibat ibang klaseng nahuling isda na kinabibilangan ng mga tuna, blue marlin, pating at durado.

Sa kasalukuyan ay nasampahan na ng kaukulang kaso ng Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ang mga nahuling tripulante. Ito ay sa kasong “poaching” na sang ayon sa section 87 ng RA 8550.

Ang MCS-3001 na pinamumunuan ni LTJG DINO B GARCIA PCG, ang barkong nakahuli sa taiwanese fishing vessel, ay isa sa mga barko ng BFAR na ginagamit ng mga tauhan ng Philippine Coast Guard bilang bahagi ng pinagsanib na kakayahan at kooperasyon ng dalawang nasabing ahensiya.

Ang pagkakahuli sa nasabing mga Poachers ay batay na rin sa mahigpit na tagubilin ni ADMIRAL WILFREDO D TAMAYO PCG, ang Commandant ng Philippine Coast Guard, na pagibayuhin ang pagmamanman at pagpapatrulya sa karagatan laban sa poaching at ilegal na pangingisda lalo na sa hilagang bahagi ng bansa. Sa ngayon ay may tatlong barkong MCS na nakatalaga sa hilagang bahagi ng bansa para gampanan ang tagubiling ito. Ang pinag-ibayong hakbang na ito ay ayon na rin sa masusing kooperasyon at kampanya laban sa mga ilegal na mangingisda na gumagamit ng nakakasirang pamamaraan ng pangingisda sa yamang dagat ng ating bansa na siyang alituntunin ng BFAR sa ilalim ng pamunuan ni DIRECTOR MALCOLM SARMIENTO.

At 3:30 pm May 10, 2009, Coast Guard Station Manila received report that one (1) male cadaver sighted by the populace at the shoreline of Purok 1, Isla Puting Bato North Harbor, Tondo, Manila.

Law Enforcement Team Coast Guard Station Manila immediately proceeded at the reported area to verify the veracity of said report. Upon arrival at the aforementioned place, the cadaver was about to retrieved by the relatives of the victim and was brought at the shore of Isla Puting Bato. CGS Manila had coordinated with Manila Police District Homicide Section for the investigation of the incident.

At 5:00 pm, PO2 Virgo Villareal Philippine National Police of MPD Homicide Section arrived at the scene and conducted investigation revealed that the victim a certain Gary P Antonio 38 years old, married and resident of Road 10, Delpan Flyover, Tondo, Manila. Further investigation revealed that the victim sustained four (4) gunshot wounds in the upper right chest believed to be coming from the Caliber 45 pistol. Investigation further with Melody Baltazar, live-in partner of the victim revealed that 2:00 pm same date, the victim and one friend proceeded to Brgy Isla Puting Bato to buy shabu for their personal use in one of their contact but allegedly they were suspected as informer of the authority by the unidentified shabu pusher and fired several times. The victim was hit at the chest by the suspect while his companion managed to escape.

The victim was brought by Prime Dynasty Universal Parlor at 2028 Rizal Avenue, Sta Cruz, Manila for autopsy while the police conducted follow-up investigation to the incident.

At 4:00 am May 11, 2009 Coast Guard National Capital Region – Central Luzon provided three (3) Special Operation Group personnel with complete diving gears to conduct search and retrieval operation to a reported drowning incident at Capiligan Street, Brgy Imelda, Quezon City.

At 4:30 am, said team arrived at the area and gathered information regarding the incident. After the information gathering, the team rigged diving gears and joined the concerned citizens conducting the search.

At 5:00 am, the cadaver was recovered by a volunteer in placing the victim aboard the improvised platform and it was found out that the name of the victim is Freddie Javiel, 20 years old resident of Capiligan Street, Brgy Imelda, Quezon City. The cadaver was turned-over to his family for proper disposition.

At 6:15 PM of May 10 2009, the Headquarters Philippine Coast Guard Action Center received telephone call from a certain Captain Velasco, master of MV Jag Viraj informing that he received a radio call thru Channel 16 that M/L RIC-RIC with some sixty (60) passengers on board is requesting assistance due to engine trouble and drifting at Lat 09 degs 47.6 mins N Long 120 Degs 03.6 Mins E or at the vicinity 45 NM SSE of Dumaran Island, Palawan.

Upon receipt of information, the Coast Guard Action Center directed Coast Guard District Palawan to establish contact with the distressed vessel and render necessary assistance upon confirmation. CAPT JOEL GARCIA PCG, the Commander of Coast Guard District Palawan immediately dispatched SARV 3501, BRP Ilocos Norte, to proceed to the reported scene of incident. Additionally, coordination was made with the Western Command (WESCOM) for the dispatch of available aircraft to fly over to the said area to help locate the distressed vessel. Additionally the Headquarters Philippine Coast Guard issued Notice to Mariners (NOTAM) to advise and inform all ships and watercrafts transiting in the said area to be in the lookout of the distressed vessel and render necessary assistance.

SARV 3501 BRP Ilocos Norte skippered by CDR ARTEMIO ABU PCG carried out SAR the operations with WESCOM joining the SAR efforts by dispatching one (1) Philippine Air Force OV-10 aircraft to conduct aerial search. On 6:05 AM of May 11, 2009, SARV 3501 BRP Ilocos Norte successfully rescued M/L RIC-RIC at vicinity Tubattaha, Palawan with eighty four (84) passengers on board. Per radio contact with SARV 3501, M/L RIC-RIC suffered broken propeller shaft and now safely towed en route to Cagayancillo Island, Palawan. However, the Philippine Coast Guard noted inconsistency particularly with the reported number of passengers and the rescued passengers which exceeded by 24. Considering this inconsistency, the Philippine Coast Guard thru the Coast Guard District Palawan will conduct further investigation to determine possible violation of vessel safety rules and regulations.

At 12:55 pm of May 7, 2009, Coast Guard Station Tacloban received cell phone call from Coast Guard Detachment Naval informing that MV Shuttle Ferry 5, a Roro cargo vessel of 565.11 GT/265.05 NT, owned/operated by Asean Marine Transport Corporation, with business address at 36 Gorordo Street, Cebu City skippered by Captain Perigrino Coles, with nineteen (19) crew and one hundred seventy eight (178) passengers onboard, suffered engine trouble at 10:20 am May 7, 2009, while docking at Naval Port and was dead on water at vicinity 200 yards near the said Port. Immediately, CGDet Naval coordinated with the owner of MBca Allas Sea Runner and transferred some stranded passengers and were brought safely to the Naval Port. Said MBca towed MV Shuttle Ferry 5 and at 1:30 pm, subject vessel arrived safely at Naval Pier with no casualty reported.

Relatedly, at 4:00am this morning, MV Trans Asia-1 of 3,797.25 GT and 2,072.47 NT owned and operated by Trans Asia Shipping Lines with business address at Osmena Boulevard, Cebu city with 444 passengers and 41 crew members on board, ran aground at the vicinity entrance Tagbilaran Channel, of Port of Tagbilaran. Said vessel managed to pull out from said area a few hours later when the tide was high and safely docked at Port of Tagbilaran at 7:00am in the morning. No casualty or injury was reported as all passengers were disembarked in said port. Coast Guard Station Tagbilaran advised the Master of the vessel to file marine protest and undergo an underwater survey prior departing for its next port of call.

At 12:00 noon of May 6, Coast Guard Law Enforcement Team composed of personnel of Coast Guard Station Bacolod, Coast Guard Detachment Bredco, Field Group Western Visayas, Special Operations Group and K-9 Unit intercepted suspected boxes containing assorted cellular phone and accessories while conducting routine inspection of baggage at Ocean Jet Terminal prior embarkation of passengers at Bredco Port, Reclamation Area, Bacolod City. Said boxes were brought to CGDet Bredco for investigation.

Coordination was made with Atty. Joselito Quirao, Officer-in-Charge of National Telecommunications Commission Bacolod for the conduct of joint inspection of apprehended items. Joint inspection and investigation revealed that said items came from Iloilo City, and owned by a certain Peter Sy, 23 years old, Chinese National, with residence address at Rosario Taytung, Bacolod City. Inventory of the items were conducted in the presence of Atty Quirao, personnel of CGDet Bredco, and the owner representative with the following items: 15 pcs of Nokia 3350, 4 pcs of Nokia 3315, 20 pcs of Sony Ericson T230 Batteries, and 250 pcs of assorted Nokia chargers. Same were properly turned-over to Engineer Enrique Tan II National Telecommunication Commission representative for proper disposition. However due to certain technicalities, all chargers were returned to the owner as per advice by Atty Quirao, OIC, NTC Bacolod City. No untoward incident happened during the conduct of operations.

Per PAGASA’s Severe Weather Bulletin Number Six, “Emong” has weakened into a Tropical Storm after crossing the mountainous terrain of Northern Luzon and is now off the coast of Isabela. It is expected to be at 370 kilometers East Northeast of Aparri, Cagayan or 300 kms East Southwest of Basco, Batanes by tomorrow morning and by Sunday morning, it will be at 570 kms East Northeast of Basco, Batanes. By Monday morning, it will be at 850 kms Northeast of Basco, Batanes or 190 kms East Southeast of Okinawa, Japan. Public Storm Warning Signal Nr 2 remains in Cagayan and Isabela and Public Storm Warning Signal Nr 1 in Apayao, Kalinga, Mt. Province, Ifugao, Nueva Vizcayas, Quirino Aurora, Babuyan and Calayan Group of Island.

As of 4:00am today, the Philippine Coast Guard has monitored the following affected by TS “Emong” and is rendering necessary assistance to ensure their safety and security:

To date, only one maritime incident was reported to the PCG as relayed by Coast Guard District Western Visayas, involving “Weesam” fast craft from Bacolod to Iloilo which ran aground while traversing the entrance of Iloilo River yesterday afternoon. Said passenger vessel managed to pull out from grounding position with the assistance of a tug boat and it is now safety berthed with no injury or casualty reported. Coast Guard Station Iloilo is conducting investigation relative to the incident.

ADM Wilfredo D Tamayo calls on the public, especially those who regularly utilize water transportation, to familiarize themselves with the new PCG regulation, and appropriately plan and schedule their trips so as to avoid being stranded in cases where passenger or Roro ships and boats cancel their trips during the occurrence of typhoons. The PCG has been implementing PCG Memorandum Circular (MC) 01-09 entitled “Guidelines on Movement of Vessels During Heavy Weather” which provides, among others, that vessels of 1,000 gross tons and below shall not sail when Public Storm Signal No. 1 is raised in either of the vessel’s origin or route or destination to ensure safety of passengers, vessels and properties. Vessels shall only be allowed to leave the port for the purpose of taking shelter from the storm and of which no passenger will be carried while taking shelter.

PCG MC 01-09 further provides that at Signal No. 2, all vessels regardless of size shall not sail, except for the purpose of taking shelter from the storm and of which no passenger will be carried while taking shelter. Furthermore, all vessel operators are reminded to promptly obtain and monitor PAGASA weather forecasts before venturing into the sea. Residents in low lying areas under signal number 1 are alerted against possible flashfloods and landslides. The PCG has likewise provided its HOTLINES (02) 527-3877 and (02) 527-8481, and HOT TEXT 0917-PCGDOTC or 0917-7243682 to facilitate reporting of maritime incidents and violations of safety regulations including colorum vessels, overloading or excess passengers, and not wearing life jackets, among others.

A Cell phone call from a concerned citizen relayed to Coast Guard District Western Visayas that at 6:40 pm of May 7, 2009, MV Weesam Express 1, owned/operated by Sabri Roadjen Norseva fast crafts of 226.70 GT/50.75 NT, skippered by Captain Democrito G Gemoso while enroute to Port of Iloilo from Bacolod ran aground at the portside entrance of Iloilo River due to low tide and strong winds and current prevailing in the area. Immediately, CGDWV dispatched one (1) team of Special Operations Group together with Coast Guard Station Iloilo personnel onboard a rubber boat and proceeded to the area for possible rescue operation. Boat Captain of PCG DF-7 was also advised to position in the area to render necessary assistance.

MV Weesam Express 1 ran aground at the entrance of Iloilo River with eighty (80) passengers onboard. Several attempts was conducted by skipper to maneuver and pull out from grounding position but failed. Mr Blas Horlador, Assistant Operation of SRN fast crafts Incorporated managed to contact the skip boat of A-1 Shipyard and T/B Holy Spirit for towing operation. After single attempts made by skip boat, said vessel was pulled out from its grounding position at 7:30 pm. Said vessel docked safely at Muelle Loney Pier and passengers were disembarked. The management was advised to secure certification from MARINA for its Seaworthiness and skipper was advised to file marine protest.

ADM Wilfredo D Tamayo calls on the public, especially those who regularly utilize water transportation, to familiarize themselves with the PCG HOTLINES (02) 527-3877 and (02) 527-8481, and HOT TEXT 0917-PCGDOTC or 0917-7243682 to facilitate reporting of maritime incidents, to include violations of safety regulations, use of colorum vessels, overloading or excess passengers, and not wearing life jackets, among others

At 10:35 am of May 06, 2009, PCG Clearing Outpost at the Iloilo Fishing Port received report from residents of Brgy Boulevard Molo, Iloilo City that there were two (2) persons missing while swimming at the shoreline of said barangay. Immediately personnel of COP IFPC boarded speed boat of Fishing Banca Coobie to conduct Search and Rescue Operation by scouring the area from Brgy Boulevard Molo to Brgy Calumpang and to Guimaras Island for possible sightings. Upon arrival at the area they spotted the swimmers at vicinity 500 yards from the shoreline of Brgy Timbad, Jordan, Guimaras holding on to improvised floating materials made of Styrofoam. At about 11:25 am same day, said swimmers were rescued and brought back to the shoreline of Brgy Boulevard Molo, Iloilo City. Rescued persons were identified as Julie Piad, male, 16 years old and Kent Dongar, male, 14 years old and both residents of Zone 5 Boulevard Molo, Iloilo City. Initial investigation revealed that said persons while swimming and playing with the floating device were drifted far from the shoreline due to strong winds and sea current. The two (2) rescued persons were properly turned over to the Barangay Officials and their relatives.

As earlier reported, ADM Wilfredo D Tamayo, Commandant PCG has reiterated his directive to all PCG Districts/ Stations/ Detachments to coordinate with local government units and local tourism authority in the area to ensure the safety of tourists and beach goers in their respective AORs. PCG units were directed to recommend for the establishment of safe swimming zones, and the posting of life guards or life savers in beach resorts. According to ADM Tamayo, the PCG is available for the conduct of life guard/life savers training. The public is enjoined to report to the nearest PCG Unit any untoward incident that may occur in their areas. The PCG may be contacted thru PCG HOTLINE (02) 527-3877 and (02) 527-8481 and PCG HOT TEXT 0917-PCGDOTC or 0917-724-3682.

As of 5:00am this morning, Tropical Storm “Emong” has intensified into a typhoon as per PAGASA Weather Bulletin Nr 02. it is expected to be at 80 kms northwest of Dagupan city or 120 kms southwest of Vigan, Ilocos Sur by tomorrow morning and by Saturday morning, it will be 180 kms east northeast of Tuguegarao city. By Sunday morning, it will be at 570 kms northeast of Tuguegarao city or 560 kms east northeast of Aparri, Cagayan. Public Storm Warning Signal Number 1 is raised in locos Norte, Abra, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Benguet, Pangasinan and Zambales. PSWS # 2 is raised in Apayao , Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Nueva Viscaya, Quirino, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pampanga and Bataan.

Yesterday, when storm “Emong” was forecasted, ADM Wilfredo D Tamayo immediately placed the PCG Units on heightened alert, particularly Coast Guard Districts Northern Luzon, National Capital Region-Central Luzon, and Southern Tagalog, the Coast Guard Fleet, Coast Guard Air Group, Coast Guard Special Operations Group and Marine Environment Protection Command. Likewise, the Deployable Response Group was activated.

In relation to the prevailing adverse weather condition, ADM Wilfredo D Tamayo, Commandant PCG reiterates the widest dissemination of Memorandum Circular (MC) 01-09 entitled “Guidelines on Movement of Vessels During Heavy Weather”. The circular provides that vessels of 1,000 gross tons and below shall not sail when Public Storm Signal No. 1 is raised in either of the vessel’s origin or route or destination. At Signal No. 2, all vessels regardless of size shall not sail. In both cases, vessels shall only be allowed to leave the port for the purpose of taking shelter from the storm and of which no passenger will be carried while taking shelter.

ADM Tamayo calls on the public, especially those who regularly utilize water transportation, to start familiarizing themselves with the new regulation, and appropriately plan and schedule their trips so as to avoid being stranded in cases where passenger or Roro ships and boats cancel their trips during the occurrence of typhoons. Furthermore, all vessel operators are reminded to promptly obtain and monitor PAGASA weather forecasts before venturing into the sea. The PCG has likewise provided its HOTLINES (02) 527-3877 and (02) 527-8481, and HOT TEXT 0917-PCGDOTC or 0917-7243682 to facilitate reporting of maritime incidents and violations of safety regulations including colorum vessels, overloading or excess passengers, and not wearing life jackets, among others.

The Government of the Philippines will host the first ASEAN Regional Forum-Voluntary Demonstration of Response (ARF-VDR) on Disaster Relief 2009 from 04-08 May 2009. The ARF-VDR is a civilian-led, military supported exercise intended to elevate the level of civilian and military cooperation in the region in times of natural disasters with the view toward saving lives, alleviating human sufferings and mitigating the effects of natural disasters. The Office of Civil Defense, and the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) takes the lead in this five (5) day exercise that will bring ARF member countries to display their capabilities in disaster response. Today’s activity is led by the Hon Glenn J Rabonza, the OCD Administrator and NDCC Executive Officer, with Hon Eduardo R Ermita, Executive Secretary as the Guest of Honor.

The ARF-VDR aims to demonstrate the multinational cooperation when responding to regional humanitarian crisis; limited demonstration of capabilities of participating nations conducted at the tactical/field level; and multiple civil-military agencies conducting humanitarian activity and disaster relief related activity. The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) was established in July 1993 during the 26th AEAN Ministerial meeting in Singapore. It focuses on political and security issues, cooperation and preventive diplomacy in the Asia Pacific Region. The ARF is composed of the 10 core ASEAN nation, 16 additional nations, and the European Union.

The Philippine Coast Guard takes part in one of the events of this activity which is the conduct of Combined Maritime Search and Rescue Operations involving the PCG as the lead agency, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), and the Philippine Navy (PN). The Combined Maritime Search and Rescue Operations will have a scenario involving a distress vessel (MV ALIBA) that eventually “sunk” at Manila Bay because of the Super Typhoon “Milenya”. The Philippine Coast Guard will participate in the said exercise by deploying a PCG Helo with rescue jumpers onboard, Search and Rescue Vessel 003 with Medical Teams onboard and the TASK FORCE SMART (Special Medical Advanced Rescue Team), Special Operations Group and Rubber Boats.

Prior voyage, ship Masters are required to submit to the PCG a Master’s Oath of Safe Departure (MOSD) certifying or attesting to the seaworthiness, in all respect, of their vessels to sail. Included in the said oath is an assurance that all engines and machineries are in good operating condition. Due to the alarming rate of engine derangements incidence, Tamayo calls on all shipowners, operators and their Masters or Captains to strictly observe safety regulations and voluntarily cancel their voyages in cases of doubts on the seaworthiness of their respective vessels until the good operating condition of the vessel is ascertained. By existing regulations, MARINA shall inspect engine repair conducted on the vessel. Furthermore, vessel’s engine breakdowns or any operational disruptions must be reported immediately to the nearest PCG unit for PCG to prepare and/or render appropriate assistance to the distressed vessel. Masters of vessels are likewise required to file marine protest of such incidents within 24 hours upon arrival at the nearest port.

The matter has been already brought to the attention of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and major shipowners’ groups such as the Philippine Liner Shipping Association (PLSA) and the Philippine Inter-Island Shipping Association (PISA). The riding public should be protected and the PCG would not allow exposing passengers to unnecessary risks. ADM Tamayo also calls on all passengers onboard ships to likewise immediately report to the PCG any signs or information of engine breakdowns being experienced by ships or other safety related information. The PCG could be reached thru Hotlines 5278481, 5273877 or Hot Text 0917PCGDOTC (09177243682).

Per PAGASA’s Severe Weather Bulletin Number Three, the Tropical Depression “Dante” has slowly moved northeastward as it maintained its strength and is expected to be at 50 kilometers South Southeast of Virac, Catanduanes by tomorrow morning and at 40 kilometers Southeast of Virac Catanduanes by Monday morning. By Tuesday morning, it will be in the vicinity of Virac, Catanduanes. As such, Public Storm Warning Signal Nr 1 is raised in Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, Masbate including Burias Island, Southern Quezon, and Northern Samar. Tropical Depression "CRISING" has weakened into a low pressure area over South China Sea.

ADM Wilfredo D Tamayo directed all Units to be ready to render necessary assistance to those who will be affected by TD “Dante”. The PCG has been implementing PCG Memorandum Circular (MC) 01-09 entitled “Guidelines on Movement of Vessels During Heavy Weather” which provides, among others, that vessels of 1,000 gross tons and below shall not sail when Public Storm Signal No. 1 is raised in either of the vessel’s origin or route or destination to ensure safety of passengers, vessels and properties. Vessels shall only be allowed to leave the port for the purpose of taking shelter from the storm and of which no passenger will be carried while taking shelter. The following were monitored number of stranded persons, trucks, small cars, vessels, and motor bancas as of 4:00am today:

PCG MC 01-09 further provides that at Signal No. 2, all vessels regardless of size shall not sail, except for the purpose of taking shelter from the storm and of which no passenger will be carried while taking shelter. Among the relevant safety nets incorporated in the circular includes the provisions on the obligation of the shipowner and Master to immediately take shelter and not to proceed to his voyage, when while underway his vessel is caught in a Storm Signal area where the vessel is not allowed to sail. Cargo watches shall be posted to ensure the safe condition of the cargoes during the entire duration of the voyage of the vessel in heavy weather. It is the responsibility of the Master of the vessel to maintain communication with the other or nearby ships, shipowners and the PCG with radio/ communication checks being conducted at least every 30 minutes for faster exchange of information and close monitoring of the condition of vessels. PAGASA for its part will be publishing graphical representation of typhoon signal areas to include the designation of no sailing zones in its regular weather bulletins for easier reference by the shipping sector. The graphical representation of typhoon signal areas is designed to be user-friendly.

ADM Tamayo calls on the public, especially those who regularly utilize water transportation, to familiarize themselves with the new regulation, and appropriately plan and schedule their trips so as to avoid being stranded in cases where passenger or Roro ships and boats cancel their trips during the occurrence of typhoons. Furthermore, all vessel operators are reminded to promptly obtain and monitor PAGASA weather forecasts before venturing into the sea. Residents in low lying areas under signal number 1 are alerted against possible flashfloods and landslides. The PCG has likewise provided its HOTLINES (02) 527-3877 and (02) 527-8481, and HOT TEXT 0917-PCGDOTC or 0917-7243682 to facilitate reporting of maritime incidents and violations of safety regulations including colorum vessels, overloading or excess passengers, and not wearing life jackets, among others.

In relation to the prevailing adverse weather condition, ADM Wilfredo D Tamayo, Commandant PCG reiterates the widest dissemination of Memorandum Circular (MC) 01-09 entitled “Guidelines on Movement of Vessels During Heavy Weather” which took effect on February 20, 2009. The guidelines jointly crafted by the PCG and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in close collaboration with other maritime regulatory bodies such as the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), as well as shipping sector and industry experts,cover all ships and watercrafts operating within the territorial jurisdiction of the country.

The circular provides that vessels of 1,000 gross tons and below shall not sail when Public Storm Signal No. 1 is raised in either of the vessel’s origin or route or destination. At Signal No. 2, all vessels regardless of size shall not sail. In both cases, vessels shall only be allowed to leave the port for the purpose of taking shelter from the storm and of which no passenger will be carried while taking shelter.

Among the relevant safety nets incorporated in the circular includes the provisions on the obligation of the shipowner and Master to immediately take shelter and not to proceed to his voyage, when while underway his vessel is caught in a Storm Signal area where the vessel is not allowed to sail. Cargo watches shall be posted to ensure the safe condition of the cargoes during the entire duration of the voyage of the vessel in heavy weather. It is the responsibility of the Master of the vessel to maintain communication with the other or nearby ships, shipowners and the PCG with radio/ communication checks being conducted at least every 30 minutes for faster exchange of information and close monitoring of the condition of vessels. PAGASA for its part will be publishing graphical representation of typhoon signal areas to include the designation of no sailing zones in its regular weather bulletins for easier reference by the shipping sector. The graphical representation of typhoon signal areas is designed to be user-friendly.

ADM Tamayo calls on the public, especially those who regularly utilize water transportation, to start familiarizing themselves with the new regulation, and appropriately plan and schedule their trips so as to avoid being stranded in cases where passenger or Roro ships and boats cancel their trips during the occurrence of typhoons. Furthermore, all vessel operators are reminded to promptly obtain and monitor PAGASA weather forecasts before venturing into the sea. The PCG has likewise provided its HOTLINES (02) 527-3877 and (02) 527-8481, and HOT TEXT 0917-PCGDOTC or 0917-7243682 to facilitate reporting of maritime incidents and violations of safety regulations including colorum vessels, overloading or excess passengers, and not wearing life jackets, among others.