The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has ordered the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to supervise security operations in all seaports nationwide amid security threats due to the recent attacks by the Maute terror group in Marawi City.
DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade has directed the PCG to take over from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) the security supervision of public and private ports and shipping, including the ingress and engress to all waterways.
The directive is contained in Department Order No. 2017-008 dated June 5, 2017.
Aside from controlling the movement of all vessels in seaports and harbors, the order directs the Coast Guard to designate security zones for maritime security purposes; enforce ports and ships identification system; regulate access to ports, vessels and waterfront facilities; inspect cargoes to prevent the transport of contrabands; and to set and enforce appropriate security levels in all ports in Mindanao, pursuant to the provisions of the International Ships and Ports Security (ISPS) Code.
PCG personnel are allowed to arrest, seize and detain persons, cargo and vessels found violating maritime security and other pertinent laws and to file the necessary charges.
The Coast Guard is also directed to strictly enforce maritime security communications; supervise, regulate and control port police and private security guards, K-9 entities, divers and underwater operations in all maritime related-facilities and infrastructure.
The department order will remain to be effective until the Martial Law declaration in Mindanao is lifted. (Aerol B. Patena/PNA)
credit: MaxDefense Philippines
