THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Occidental and the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) intensified their security measures for the observance of the Lenten season next week.
Lieutenant Commander Jimmy Oliver Vingno, head of PCG-Bacolod, said on March 19 that they will be on heightened alert status from March 26 to April 3 as they expect an influx of passengers next week for the said occasion.
Vingno said they will put passenger assistance desks in major ports in the province to establish order and for quick response in emergency situations.
The assistance desks will be manned by Coast Guard personnel, auxiliaries, police, and personnel from Marina, and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
Vigno said all 70 personnel in all ports in the province will be deployed in their areas of jurisdiction to conduct sea patrol, together with about 500 force multipliers who will also provide assistance to the team.
He also said they will coordinate with the resort owners and managers to check their compliance safety protocols like deployment of lifeguards to ensure the safety of the beach and resort-goers.
Vingno said they will also have a close coordination with the local government units.
He reminded the public to be vigilant and to book tickets for early trips in order to establish order in port terminals.
He also advised parents and guardians to always look after their children if they go for an outing.
He also urged everyone to avoid going to the shore or swimming pool if already under the influence of intoxicating liquor to avoid drowning incidents.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in the province will also be on heightened alert status starting next week since there are families who will leave their homes for vacation.
The bureau advised the public to always check the electrical connection when they leave their homes.
Policemen in the province will also intensify their visibility and patrol operations through the assistance hubs and deployment of troops in transport terminals, ports, shopping malls, churches, and other areas of convergence.
Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Castil Jr., provincial director of Nocppo, said in a press statement, that police mobile patrol will also be conducted in subdivisions, villages, and streets in their areas of responsibility.
Castil urged the public to be vigilant as lawless elements are just waiting for an opportunity to strike.
Earlier, the Bacolod City Police Office said that help desks in areas of convergence, particularly in churches, will also be put up in relation to the observance of Holy Week. There will be police officers who will man the desks. (GYM)