Coast Guard deploys bomb sniffing dogs at LRT-1

August 29, 2020

Following the series of explosions in Sulu last Monday, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed bomb sniffing dogs to augment security at Light Rail Transit (LRT) 1.

PCG Commandant  Admiral George Ursabia Jr. said: ''since August 26, our K9 teams have been assisting security forces at the LRT-1 to deter criminal activities through higher visibility, enhance response time, and to make commuter riding experience more secure,.''

"Rest assured that your Coast Guard will remain selfless and committed in protecting our riding public against the danger of terrorism,” Ursabia added.

Ursabia implored the riding public to cooperate with  authorities and stay vigilant during their travels.

“We are also enjoining our commuters to immediately report the presence of any suspicious items, activities, or individuals at the vicinity of our train stations," Ursabia said.

"We will immediately perform necessary actions to prevent succeeding threats to public safety and security,” he added.

Commodore Armando Balilo, PCG spokesman, said the Coast Guard K9 Teams, are composed of K9 handlers, working dogs, veterinarians, and explosive ordnance disposal specialists.

He said the K9 teams deployment from Roosevelt to Baclaran stations of the LRT-1 "is in response to order of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade for the PCG to help ensure safety and security in various public transportation hubs in Metro Manila, most especially in train stations that cater to thousands of passengers on a daily basis." Robina Asido/DMS