• CHERYL G. CRUZ
A new Coast Guard substation will rise at the Mantaangan Port in Brgy. Mantaangan, E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental.
This as the Deed of Usufruct (DOU) agreement was signed between the Coast Guard District Southern Visayas (CGDSV), represented by its district commander, Commodore Ludovico Librilla Jr., and the FF Cruz Shipping Corporation Jan. 7.
The partnership strengthens the PCG’s capability to respond to maritime incidents, enforce laws, and safeguard lives and property at sea in nearby waters, the coast guard said in a statement.
Under the agreement, FF Cruz Shipping Corp. granted the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) the usufructuary rights to a 100 square meter portion of its Lot 409 in Brgy. Mantaangan. This strategic location will serve as site for a new Coast Guard substation in the area.
“Both parties emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration in achieving mutual goals in ensuring safety and security for maritime operations, and in fostering the development of port facilities in the region,” the CGDSV added.
The latest collaboration underscores the CGDSV’s dedication to building strategic alliances with stakeholders, marking a significant step toward bolstering maritime safety and security in the Negros Island Region, it added.
Last month, Librilla and other CGDSV officers also discussed with Pontevedra Mayor Jose Maria Alonso the possibility of establishing a sub-station in the municipality, particularly near the Mount Kanlaon area, given its recent unrest.
Alonso stressed during the meeting the importance of having Coast Guard personnel stationed in the area for increased visibility and presence, enhancing both safety and response capabilities in the region, the CGDSV said. | CGC
