With the warning issued by PAGASA that heavy rains may likely hit the country because the La Nina phenomenon, Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Rear Admiral William Melad, today directed all Coast Guard units nationwide to initiate pro active measures to prevent/minimize loss of lives attributed to maritime incidents that may be caused by the rainy season and expected threats of typhoons.

Rear Admiral Melad said that rescue units like disaster response and quick reaction teams composed of divers, paramedics, rescue swimmers and K-9 units should be on high level of readiness so it can immediately respond to maritime and land based disasters caused by weather disturbances and typhoons. He also underscored the importance of vigilance in undertaking maritime safety related measures such as intensification of ship’s inspection; more elaborate and careful conduct of pre-departure inspection paying particular attention to the number of passengers on board, and to conduct public awareness campaign to highlight safety during inclement weather especially to the fishing community.

The Commandant also called on the PCG’s auxiliary volunteers to actively involve their units and equipment during rescue operations as part of the regular coast guard personnel. 

The directive also tasked Coast Guard units nationwide to coordinate and encourage operational cooperation with other government agencies like the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Red Cross.“
Meanwhile, the PCG is hoping to get additional search and rescue equipment like rubber boats, trucks and ambulance to augment the current inventory of assets.