By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Northern Negros Occidental has begun its security preparations for the return of the MassKara Festival set to begin on October 1.

PCG-Northern Negros Occidental station commander Joe Luviz Mercurio said their operatives have started coordinating with the festival organizers.

They have also received orders from Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez to strengthen their inspections of all vessels docking at the BREDCO and Banago ports to stop the entry of illegal drugs.

“We are trying our utmost, nga ma-eradicate or ma-put namon into minimal proportion ang pagsulod sang contraband diri sa Negros Occidental,” Mercurio said.

He said they will coordinate with other law enforcement agencies to ensure the security of tourists arriving at the city’s ports./DGB, WDJ