PCG: As part of the PCG modernization project, three newly-constructed Coast Guard facilities worth Php 50 million were inaugurated in Western Visayas last Friday, 16 May.

DOTC Undersecretary, Hon. Julianito G Bucayan Jr as Guest of Honor together with Coast Guard District Western Visayas (CGDWV) Commander, Commodore Athelo Ybañez and Captain Sarabia, PCG Auxiliary graced the blessing of Headquarters CGDWV Annex located in Bo. Obrero in Lapaz, Iloilo City.

Subsequently, Undersecretary Bucayan and Iloilo City Mayor, Hon. Jed Patrick E Mabilog attended  the inaguration in Coast Guard Station (CGS) Iloilo in Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City while Honorable Samuel T Gumarin, Province of Guimaras Governor attended the inauguration in Coast Guard Sub-Station Buenavista in Guimaras.

Commodore Ybañez on behalf of the Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, Vice Admiral Rodolfo Isorena thanked the President and DOTC leadership for the unwavering support to the development of PCG. He added that having modern facilities means better and more efficient service for his units.

Commodore Ybanez also disclosed that forty additional aluminum boats for search and rescue and maritime law enforcement activities are also expected to arrive in Western Vizayas early next month to be distributed to their various stations and sub-stations. 

Last month, DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya and DILG Secretary Mar Roxas led the groundbreaking of the Php 217 million worth search and rescue base and the inauguration of Php 11 million worth station in Culasi Port, Roxas City.