Philippine Coast Guard to Intensify Seaborne Patrol Operations to Combat Illegal Drug Entry
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has recently announced its plans to strengthen its seaborne patrol operations in order to deter the entry of illegal drugs into the country. This decision comes in response to the recovery of over P122.7 million worth of cocaine in the shorelines of Eastern Visayas and Northeastern Mindanao during the first week of March.
In a directive issued by Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, the PCG commandant, coast guard districts have been instructed to enhance their monitoring of vessels that may be involved in the transportation of illegal drugs. Additionally, they have been directed to intensify intelligence operations, expand coastal security patrols, and coordinate with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units to bolster anti-illegal drug operations, particularly along the eastern seaboard of the Philippines.
To further strengthen their efforts, Admiral Gavan has also urged coast guard personnel to establish stronger connections with local fisherfolk networks within their respective areas of responsibility. This will create a more robust monitoring system, allowing for the accurate reporting of any suspicious or unauthorized activities at sea.
The recent recoveries of suspected cocaine highlight the urgent need for heightened vigilance. On March 1, the PCG discovered one kilo of suspected cocaine off the coast of Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. The recovered item, valued at P5.3 million, was promptly turned over to the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office-Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (SDSPPO-PDEU) for further investigation.
Just a few days later, on March 4, two fishermen found another brick of suspected cocaine weighing approximately 1.08 kilos, with an estimated value of P5.7 million, near the same village. These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by drug trafficking in the region.
In a more significant discovery on March 8, PCG personnel assisted a local fisherman named Samuel Dalimpapas, who stumbled upon 20 bricks of suspected cocaine off the coast of Arteche, Eastern Samar. These bricks, weighing an estimated 25 kilos and valued at P106 million, were found wrapped in plastic bags and enclosed in a fishnet. The PCG promptly secured the area and turned the seized items over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.
The following day, another brick of suspected cocaine, weighing approximately 1.08 kilos and valued at P5.7 million, was recovered by a group of students along the shoreline of Bitaug Village in the town of Burgos, Surigao del Norte. This incident further underscores the need for increased efforts to combat the illegal drug trade.
On the same day, the PCG recorded yet another recovery of alleged cocaine along the shoreline of Valencia Village in Lingig Town, Surigao del Sur. These consecutive incidents highlight the importance of the PCG’s decision to intensify seaborne patrol operations and collaborate with other law enforcement agencies.
The PCG’s commitment to combating illegal drug entry is crucial in safeguarding the Philippines from the detrimental effects of drug trafficking. By intensifying seaborne patrol operations, enhancing intelligence gathering, and strengthening coordination with relevant agencies, the PCG aims to effectively deter and intercept illegal drugs before they reach the country’s shores.
The recent recoveries of suspected cocaine serve as a reminder of the persistent challenges posed by drug trafficking. However, with the PCG’s proactive measures and increased vigilance, there is hope for a safer and more secure maritime environment in the Philippines.
Source: The Manila Times
