MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will deploy 17,000 personnel nationwide during the Holy Week to support heightened maritime security and safety operations, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said.

From April 13 to 20, all PCG districts, stations, and sub-stations will be placed on heightened alert to manage the influx of passengers traveling to their home provinces. The PCG said it is working to avoid maritime casualties and ensure a generally safe and peaceful observance of Semana Santa.

Based on PCG data, around 1.65 million passengers were monitored at ports nationwide during Holy Week in 2024, up 10 percent from 1.5 million in 2023. Gavan warned that the surge presents recurring challenges, including overcrowding, vessel overloading, and a rise in maritime-related crimes.

“Maritime crimes, such as robbery incidents, are still a prevalent threat considering the influx of passengers across ports,” Gavan said, noting that incidents have been reported in major ports such as Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Zamboanga in recent years.

To address these risks, the PCG said it will conduct 24/7 monitoring along nautical highways, including western and eastern seaboards and inter-island routes. K9 units and security teams will inspect port terminals and vessels, while Coast Guard responders will assist lifeguards in tourist destinations and carry out coastal patrols.

Seaborne patrol units have also been instructed to prepare for possible search and rescue missions in case of emergencies.

The PCG said it will coordinate with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) maritime sector, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and local government units to implement interagency safety operations throughout the week.