The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is actively preparing its operating units that will be on heightened alert from 23 March to 03 April 2024 for the Department of Transportation (DOTr)’s Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2024.

PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan, has directed PCG Districts, Stations, and Sub-Stations to intensify seaborne patrols and safety measures on all ports and waterways nationwide.

PCG Spokesperson, CG Rear Admiral Armando Balilo, said this is to ensure the smooth operations of sea transport facilities, convenient sea travel, and safety of local and foreign tourists in major beach and private resorts amid the anticipated increased volume of maritime traffic.

Coast Guard personnel will conduct 24/7 monitoring of nautical highways in western and eastern seaboards, including inter-island routes.

Western seaboard includes Batangas, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Aklan, Iloilo, and Zamboanga regions. Meanwhile, Eastern seaboard covers Manila, Bicol region, Samar, Leyte, and Surigao provinces.

Coast Guard medical officers will also be deployed to augment existing medical teams during emergencies.

PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) volunteers have been tapped to form deployable response groups (DRGs) that will assist in the upcoming Holy Week operations.

The PCG Commandant has also instructed Coast Guard personnel and PCGA volunteers to exercise vigilance and extend patience during passenger and luggage checks.

Coast Guard K9 units and security teams will also implement thorough port terminal and vessel inspections to ensure “zero maritime casualty” during Semana Santa 2024.

Coast Guard rescuers who are trained to do first aid and life-saving techniques will also assist lifeguards and first responders in maritime tourist destinations.

Seaborne patrol units are also preparing for possible search and rescue (SAR) missions in their respective areas of responsibility (AORs).

The PCG works with the DOTr’s Maritime Sector agencies, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), in performing vessel safety and security inspections, as well as reminding passengers to remain alert during their sea travel.

Coast Guard units also assist the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in manning critical checkpoints to ensure public safety and security, especially in highly-populated tourist areas.