PCG-7 patrolling Cebu seas

Measures vs terrorism

CEBU, Philippines — Adhering to its mandate to do Intensified Community Awareness Response and Enforcement (PCG iCARE), the Philippine Coast Guard- 7 personnel have conducted maritime law enforcement and security patrol along the waters of Camotes Island and Tañon Strait yesterday.

PCG Central Visayas spokesperson Lt. JG. Michael Encina said that they are answering the call of the president and Department of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade to do their mandate in the seas under their area of responsibility.

Together with the Multi-Role Response Vessel, 4404 BRP Capones, Coast Guard Anti-Terrorism Unit, and the Coast Guard Force, they conducted a joint Maritime Patrol (MARPAT) in the seas of Cebu.

Encina said that the purpose of the MARPAT was to prevent lawless elements in the seas to perpetuate chaos in Central Visayas and to keep its peace amid the recent bombings in Sulu and Zamboanga.

Region 7 security officials, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines and several mayors, had recently assured the public that there is no threat in Cebu.

PRO-7 Regional Director Debold Sinas said that Cebu has been placed in red alert since Sunday, following the twin bombings in Sulu Cathedral, to further tighten the security.

Although with the absence of direct threats, Sinas said constant checkpoints are still undertaken.

Encina added the operations they are doing now are not the end or the beginning because they will continue to patrol the seas to keep the peace. — John Kendrick P. Ceciban (FREEMAN)