Manila: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez on Tuesday highlighted the role of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in disaster response amidst the onslaught of Typhoon Tino. In a statement, Lopez said the PCG plays a major role in assisting victims of tragedies or calamities as well as safeguarding the country’s maritime borders, especially in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). He said PCG personnel risk their lives whenever they help evacuate residents from disaster zones or during the distribution of relief goods.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PCG has mobilized to provide rescue and relief operations in affected areas in the Visayas and Mindanao. The PCG Station in Eastern Samar implemented forced evacuations in the province, particularly in the towns of Guiuan, Quinapondan, San Julian, Oras, and Dolores. The residents were evacuated with the help of the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, and Municipal Risk Reduction and Management Offices.

In addition, the PCG also evacuated trapped residents amid massive flooding in Cebu through the dispatch of four deployable response groups (DRG). Each DRG was composed of 20 personnel and was tasked to assist families in Liloan, Cebu; Barangay Umapad, Mandaue City; and Barangay Biasong, Talisay City.

The PCG also responded to a vessel allision in Jolo, Sulu, between MV Maria Rebecca of Montenegro Shipping Lines and MV Antonia 1 of Alesson Shipping Lines at the Port of Jolo. Initial investigation showed that rough sea conditions and strong swells contributed to the loss of maneuvering control of MV Maria Rebecca while attempting to dock.

Lopez praised the PCG’s unwavering commitment, stating, “As you have seen, the PCG remains steadfast despite being attacked by water cannons in the WPS to protect the territory of the country.” He emphasized the importance of supporting and recognizing the PCG’s contributions to society and their honest service to the nation.