The Philippine Coast Guard Station in Negros Occidental (CGS–NegOcc) is going on a “heightened alert” status starting next week as part of its preparations for the influx of travelers for the holiday season.
Capt. Ludovico Librilla, Coast Guard District Western Visayas (CGDWV) deputy commander and CGS-NegOcc commander, said all of their personnel have been given directives to fully-implement all safety and security protocols in the various ports of Negros Occidental.
Librilla said they will deploy the same amount of personnel from last year because they do not have any additional personnel coming from the CGDWV.
CGS-NegOcc ports personnel were ordered to conduct regular pre-departure inspections of all vessels making sure that health protocols are strictly observed, he said.
Librilla also reminded travelers to make sure that they have the necessary travel documents such as vaccine cards/certificates for vaccinated individuals and negative RT-PCR test results for unvaccinated travelers.
He also advised travelers to avoid bringing prohibited items such as firecrackers or pyrotechnics, firearms, and any sharp objects.
Travelers are further advised to regularly check the weather prior to their scheduled trip, as the coast guard can call for a suspension of sea trips if conditions are not favorable for safe sea travel, Librilla said.*