Directories to aid distressed ferries

The Philippine Coast Guard has printed and distributed copies of PCG Communications Directory to shipping companies and maritime stakeholders to help improve co-ordinations and communications in support of the conduct of safe, clean and secure sea travel.

The said directory includes listing of communications devices such as landlines, fax machines, cellular phones, VSAT, Microwave System, email addresses and internet available in the PCG Headquarters, 5 Major Support Commands, 10 Districts, 55 Stations, and 195 Detachments around the country. PCG also created a website (www.coastguard.gov.ph) for swift and easy way of disseminating of information to shipping companies and maritime stakeholders were they can look through the announcement/notice to mariners, whether forecast, Board of Marine Inquiry concerns, PCG recruitment result, press releases and etc. Also included in the directory are the contact details of the emergency services and organizations that can provide assistance in times of crisis.

Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Wilfredo D Tamayo said the distribution or circulation of PCG Directory will help facilitate the immediate reporting of maritime incidents and improve co-ordinations among shipping companies and government agencies, and for availability of Coast Guard assistance to vessels in distress.

With the observance of holidays and other peak travel seasons, PCG units have been placed on heightened alert to render passenger assistance in all busy ports in the country. Quick Response Teams, Special Operations Group divers/rescue swimmers, and medical, K-9, and Oil Spill Response Teams will augment Coast Guard Boarding Teams and Sea Marshals to help port authorities and shipping companies ensure the safety and security of maritime travellers, the number of which has started to increase this November. The PCG has also redeployed its vessels and small crafts close to busy sea lanes/maritime traffic for ready assistance when necessary.

PCG Auxiliary volunteers will likewise join the Passenger Assistance Center booths which are jointly manned by teams from PCG, Philippine Ports Authority and Maritime Industry Authority to help the riding public.