- MITCH M. LIPA
The Philippine Coast Guard has dissolved its South Visayas Command effective Feb. 8 this year, consequently reverting the PCG unit in Negros Occidental to its regional station in Iloilo and the Negros Oriental field office to PCG Cebu.
But Lt. Commander Ludovico Librilla of PCG Negros Occidental station said the move will not affect any personnel and programs for both PCG stations.
The PCG South Visayas Command was formed only in 2016 during the creation of the Negros Island Region.
President Rodrigo Duterte vetoed the Executive Order creating the NIR four years ago.
Librilla said the higher command opted to return the offices to their original mother stations with Occidental placed under Region 6 and Oriental, including Siquijor rejoining Region 7.
Librilla added he maintains to be the provincial commander of PCG Negros Occidental with sub- stations in Hinobaan, Sipalay City, Cauayan, Hinigaran, Pulupandan, Victorias City, Cadiz City, Sagay City, Escalante City and San Carlos City with a total of 250 personnel.
Lt. Commander Jansen Benjamin, who was the former station commander in Negros Occidental, will remain as Negros Oriental PCG head.
The Negros Oriental Provincial Command has sub-stations in Amlan, Bais, Bayawan, Zamboanguita and Siaton with almost 150 personnel. – MML
