PCG sends off maritime security groups in 6 regions

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday deployed maritime security groups in six “critical regions” as it intensifies its law enforcement operations.

In a statement, the PCG said these teams are assigned to Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog, Central Visayas, Western Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Southwestern Mindanao.

More deployment will cover other regions within the year, according to the PCG.

Maritime Security Law Enforcement Command (MARSLEC) commander Vice Admiral Robert Patrimonio said these groups are tasked to enhance the maritime security drive and ensure the smooth flow of maritime economics within the Philippine domestic waters. 

"The MARSLEGs will augment and intensify our fight against human trafficking, illegal fishing activities, drugs and arms smuggling, and other maritime infringements within the municipal waters," CG Vice Admiral Patrimonio said.

“We have initially identified these six critical regions due to high maritime traffic and high reports of maritime security incidents,” he added.

The Maritime Security Law Enforcement Groups or MARSLEGs will supervise and enforce laws, policies, guidelines, rules, and regulations for the security law enforcement on sea transport and maritime infrastructures, according to the PCG.

Each MARSLEG is composed of Coast Guard’s K9 Force; Security and Border Protection Force; Investigation and Detection Force; Surface Patrol Force; and Sea Marshall Force.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA Integrated News