The local government unit (LGU) of this municipality has turned over a two-storey facility worth PHP1.5 million to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to enhance disaster response and environmental protection.

In a statement on Tuesday, the PCG said the building will serve as a multi-functional area, fostering its collaboration with the Sto. Tomas LGU in addressing maritime safety, disaster preparedness, and ecological preservation.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said the facility, which is located near the community landing fish port in Brgy. Poblacion, is “a great boost to the morale of our personnel.”

“Most of all, this shall greatly help us deliver our mandate of responding to the call of our fellow Filipinos in need, especially during times of crisis, calamities and disasters,” Gavan said, as he thanked the Sto. Tomas LGU led by Mayor John Sambo for the donation.

For his part, Sambo said the facility “brings our coast guard officers nearer to us, so that they can help us in terms of disaster awareness, preparedness and response.”

“This (partnership) goes to show that when the national and local governments collaborate, great things will happen,” he said.

Apart from the facility, the municipality is also donating a 5,000-square-meter vacant lot to the PCG, which can potentially house additional facilities for PCG schooling and training. (PNA)