PCG, BFP go on heightened alert

MANILA, Philippines — To ensure its personnel are available to manage the expected surge of sea travelers and immediately respond to fire alarms during the Yuletide season, the Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fire Protection will go on heightened alert status, the PCG and BFP said.

BFP spokesman Sr. Supt. Bonifacio Carta said fire personnel will go on code blue, the heightened alert status, beginning Dec. 15 and code red, or full alert, from Dec. 23 to Jan. 2.

“All applications for leave except for sick leave are suspended,” Carta said.

He added that the BFP will deploy 32,000 of its personnel as part of the Oplan Paalala-Iwas Paputok campaign.

From Dec. 20 to Jan. 4, the PCG will be on heightened alert to manage the anticipated surge of travelers during the Yuletide season.

Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, PCG commandant, said all Coast Guard districts, stations and sub-stations are ordered to ensure a safe and secure holiday travel for millions of sea passengers nationwide.

“We continue to remind the public to stay vigilant and follow safety advisories to help ensure peaceful and orderly holiday celebrations,” said PCG spokesperson Noemie Cayabyab.