THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Occidental has been placed on "red alert" status following the deadly bombings in Jolo, Sulu last Monday, August 24, that killed 15 people and injured 75 others.
PCG-Negros Occidental chief Lieutenant Commander Jansen Benjamin said the heightened alert status was part of the directives issued by the PCG National Headquarters and orders coming from the Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade.
Under the status, Benjamin said they have intensified security in all major ports in Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City.
Although trips are currently still limited to the transportation of essential goods, the PCG has deployed its K9 units, which are now checking all vehicles and cargo being loaded into ships prior to departure.
The PCG in Negros Occidental has also deployed their new Zodiac fast boats at the Bredco port in Bacolod City which is being used for security and interdiction purposes.
Meanwhile, following the heightened alert status, Benjamin said they have intercepted a shipment of dried marijuana at the Port of San Carlos City, Tuesday night.
According to Benjamin, the illegal drugs were hidden inside a box filled with dried fish and it was discovered when a security guard and port police conducted a routine inspection of baggage arriving at the port.
Based on a separate report issued by the San Carlos City Police Station, the said illegal drugs, valued at P90,000, were shipped by a certain Jimboy Laña in Toledo City, Cebu.
Police investigation is ongoing to identify the package's consignee.
