PCG to intensify operations vs. illegal drugs

The Philippine Coast Guard said on Thursday that it would intensify its patrol operations to prevent the entry of illegal drugs.

This came after P122.7 million worth of suspected cocaine was recovered in different vicinity waters and shorelines of Eastern Visayas and Northeastern Mindanao earlier this month.

“CG Admiral (Ronnie Gil) Gavan has directed Coast Guard Districts to heighten monitoring of vessels used in transporting illegal drugs, intensify intel operations, expand coastal security patrols, and coordinate with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP), and LGUs (local government units) to augment anti-illegal drug operations, especially in the eastern seaboard of the Philippines,” the PCG said.

Coast Guard personnel have also been instructed to coordinate with their local fisherfolk networks to ensure accurate reporting of suspicious and unauthorized activities at sea. — Jiselle Anne Casucian/VBL, GMA Integrated News