Coast Guard places southwestern Mindanao under red alert after Jolo blast

August 24, 2020

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral George Ursabia Jr. placed southwestern Mindanao under red alert status following the two explosions that killed eleven persons in Jolo, Sulu on Monday.

In a statement, the PCG noted that the areas under red alert include Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi.

"PCG personnel in the region are augmenting the forces of the AFP and PNP in investigating the incident specifically in identifying its perpetrators, as well as in responding to casualties and in ensuring the safety of the residents against succeeding threats," said PCG.

"Moreover, PCG K9 units, safety inspectors, and patrol boat operators are directed to be extra vigilant in securing ports, harbors, and other waterways in the region," it stated.

"Several K9 units of the Coast Guard are also ready for deployment as soon as requested by the AFP," the PCG added. Robina Asido/DMS