The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Oriental is set to activate four new substations in the province to ensure faster response, an official said Sept. 30.
Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, commander of the Coast Guard Negros Oriental Station, told the Philippine News Agency that they are awaiting the activation of substations in Vallehermoso, Bindoy, Tanjay City and Manjuyod.
“These substations already have assigned Coast Guard personnel, and we are awaiting the approval from the national headquarters,” Enopia said.
Local government units (LGUs) have already signed agreements with the Coast Guard for the use of the necessary buildings or spaces for the substations.
There are currently 12 active PCG substations in the province, located in Guihulngan City, Agyunon, Tayasan, Bais City, Amlan, Sibulan, Dumaguete, Bacong, Zamboanguita, Apo Island (in Dauin town), Siaton and Bayawan City.
Commodore Christopher Auro, commander of the PCG’s District Southern Visayas-Negros Island Region, visited some substations over the weekend to check on operational readiness. Auro urged the LGUs to offer the Coast Guard space for substations, along with sleeping quarters for personnel, to enhance response time.
Enopia said they are also hopeful that Dauin, a major tourist destination known for its beaches, marine sanctuaries, and Apo Island, will provide space for a substation. ||
