MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is gearing up for possible augmentation of the Manila local government unit (LGU) security force in managing Black Nazarene devotees on January 9, 2021 at the commemoration of ‘Traslacion 2021’.

Manila City Mayor Isko Domagoso has decided to cancel the annual gathering as a precautionary measure amid the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

However, the PCG wants to ensure that all its personnel and assets are all-set for immediate deployment, upon request of the Manila LGU.

PCG Commandant, Admiral George Ursabia Jr already ordered the inspection of all land and floating assets that may be utilized in supporting the implementation of city-wide health protocols and safety measures against the threat of COVID-19.

“Supporting the local government in ensuring safety and security during the annual celebration of ‘Traslacion’ has been our commitment to our kababayans to exercise their religious beliefs every ninth day of January. However, given the pandemic, we understand that the health and welfare of our fellow Filipinos should be our utmost priorities,” Admiral Ursabia said.

“Notwithstanding the announcement of the Manila LGU, we will continue to prepare for possible deployment, specifically in strengthening the enforcement of minimum health standards, maintaining overall peace and security, and providing medical assistance to the devotees, as deemed necessary,” he added.

The PCG encourages Black Nazarene devotees who are planning to visit Quiapo Church, Sta. Cruz Church, San Sebastian Church, or other churches that will hold holy masses in celebration of ‘Traslacion 2021’ to fully comply with the protocols in place for their personal welfare amid the existing threat to public health and safety.

MASBATE, Philippines – Personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station in Masbate rescued 70 passengers of a motorbanca that encountered engine trouble at sea.

The sea vessel was plying the vicinity waters off San Miguel Island, Barangay Guinhadap, in the municipality of Monreal, Masbate going to Pilar, Sorsogon on Monday (December 16).

The PCG rescue team confirmed that the passengers were all safe.

All passengers were unharmed and were brought to Pilar Port.

(Courtesy of Noveleta DRMMO)

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) suspended sea travel in several parts of Southern Luzon and Bicol on Monday (August 13) morning due to the enhanced southwest monsoon or habagat.

As of 4:00 a.m. today, over 190 passengers were stranded in ports in Camarines Sur, Batangas, Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Romblon and Northern Quezon, according to the agency in an advisory.

The PAGASA weather bureau said monsoon rains would continue to dump moderate to occasional heavy rains in Luzon in the coming days that might cause flooding and landslides especially in low-lying areas in the country. – UNTV News & Rescue