The Philippine Coast Guard in Bicol (PCG-5) will deploy over 500 personnel and prepare contingency plans to ensure a safe, organized, and peaceful celebration of the Peñafrancia Festival in Naga City this month.

In an interview Thursday, PCG-5 commander Commodore Ivan Roldan said the personnel include those stationed in Camarines Sur and volunteers from other Coast Guard auxiliaries.

“We will deploy augmentation personnel beyond those from the Coast Guard in Camarines Sur; we will also include personnel from the district and volunteers from other Coast Guard auxiliaries. Aside from our personnel, we will also include logistical support and equipment during the fluvial procession,” he said.

Roldan added that as part of the enhanced safety and security measures, the PCG-5, with other government agencies, conducted a simulation exercise (SIMEX) focused on boat capsizing and drowning incidents.

He said the activity aimed to evaluate emergency response protocols to address potential water-related incidents during the fluvial procession and other festival activities.

With the preparations in place, Roldan added that PCG-5 is fully prepared to assist throughout the festival.

“I’m confident that the Philippine Coast Guard is ready for the upcoming Peñafrancia Festival. PCG-5 is also strengthening its inter-agency coordination to prepare for worst-case scenarios,” he added.

The personnel continue to undergo trainings to ensure a unified and standard response to situations, allowing for a more coordinated effort.

“The Coast Guard also provides training to our partners. This is to ensure that we have standard operating procedures in place, allowing for a unified analysis and coordinated response,” he added. (PNA)