By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station in Northern Negros Occidental has been placed on heightened alert status ahead of the holiday season.

Commander Joe Luviz Mercurio, PCG Station chief, said they will strictly carry out inspections of all types of vessels, especially passenger ships.

Mercurio said they are also monitoring cargo ships docking in Negros Occidental to prevent the entry of pork products as part of the province’s protocols against African swine fever (ASF).

Paneling operations against ASF are also done in cooperation with officials from the Bureau of Animal Industry.

Meanwhile, passenger ships are inspected to make sure that all of their safety equipment is in place and the vessel itself is fit for sea travel.

Inspections of passengers’ baggage are also being carried out.

Mercurio advised the traveling public to avoid carrying any type of contraband to prevent any inconveniences with their travel plans.

He also assured the public that the PCG in the province is ready in case of any emergencies./DGB, WDJ