Philippine Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade ordered the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to take over control and supervision of security operations in all seaports nationwide in light of the security threat posed by the Maute group.
The group has attacked Marawi City, resulting in President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of martial law in the entire Mindanao.
Under Department Order No. 2017-008 issued on June 5, 2017, Tugade directed the PCG to ”take over the security supervision of ports, and shipping, whether public or private, including the egress and ingress to all waterways from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).”
The order took effect immediately and will remain in force until martial law in Mindanao is lifted.
Under the order, Tugade instructed the PCG to control movement of all vessels in seaports and harbours; designate security zones for maritime security purposes; enforce ports and ships identification system; regulate access to ports, vessels and waterfront facilities; inspect cargoes to prevent the transport of contrabands; and to set and enforce appropriate security levels in all ports in Mindanao, pursuant to provisions of the International Ships and Ports Security Code.
This allows the PCG to arrest, seize and detain persons, cargo and vessels found violating maritime security and other pertinent laws and to file the necessary charges.
Further, the Coast Guard will strictly enforce maritime security communications; supervise, regulate and control port police and private security guards, K9 entities, divers and underwater operations in all maritime-related facilities and infrastructure.
