Manila: The Philippine Coast Guard in Bicol (PCG-5) has ramped up security measures at various ports in the region in preparation for the Holy Week and the upcoming national and local elections on May 12.

According to Philippines News Agency, Coast Guard District Bicol Commander Commodore Ivan Roldan stated that all Coast Guard stations and substations in the region have intensified patrols and inspections to ensure the safety of travelers heading to their respective provinces. “We have deployed composite teams at each station, comprising K-9 units, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, and personnel at our sub-stations. All seaports are being monitored around the clock, in addition to our regular monitoring routines,” he said.

Roldan mentioned that over 800 personnel have been assigned to various seaports across the six provinces in the region. “We are closely monitoring seaports to prevent the smuggling of firearms and narcotics. We have also added sniffer dogs for narcotics detection and EOD teams to enhance security, particularly at major ports such as Pilar and Matnog in Sorsogon, Tabaco City in Albay, and Pasacao in Camarines Sur. Currently, we have 49 sniffer dogs in the region,” he added.

He also noted that they are anticipating an increase in passenger volume as summer, Holy Week, and the election period approach. Roldan assured the public that the PCG-Bicol will uphold the integrity of the electoral process and demonstrate its commitment to ensuring peaceful, fair, and orderly elections in the region. “We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of maritime transport, as well as responding to any emergencies during election-related activities,” he said.