Coast Guard gets ready for La Niña

CEBU, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is undertaking steps to prepare the sea-riding public against the threat post by La Niña.

That, as Cebu Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council Chairperson Governor Gwendolyn Garcia assures that she is ready to help respond to whatever adverse effects the weather phenomenon will bring, even within the Cebu City territory.

The Coast Guard has been conducting symposiums and seminars on the issue.

They also spread information about the guidelines issued for safe and secure sea travel, said Anelito Gabisan, Coast Guard District Central Visayas deputy chief.

The Capitol will always be at the forefront of immediate response to disasters with its Provincial Social Welfare Office and the Provincial Engineering Office, the governor assures.

"As soon as the road is clear I am always one of the first to arrive," she said.

She also clarifies that even before a disaster strikes, the provincial offices are already prepared with supplies like food, clothing, medicines and emergency kits to be delivered immediately.

Equipment from the engineering office are always ready, as well as that of the private contractors when necessary.

"Contractors are given a chance to give back to the province from where they are doing business, so free ta kung mangayo ta ug tabang nila," Garcia said.

Garcia will also look for a term to replace the Disaster Coordinating Council.

"I don't know why they call it that. You cannot coordinate a disaster prior to a disaster," she said. - Niña G. Sumacot and Ria Mae Booc/JPM (FREEMAN)