The Philippine Coast Guard in Dumaguete City yesterday received five aluminum speedboats from its central office in Manila for its daily patrols and operations, and for use during calamities.

The speedboats will be deployed to the Coast Guard sub-stations in Guihulngan, Amlan, Bayawan and in Larena, Siquijor, and Dumaguete.

PCG Dumaguete OIC commander, Chief Petty Officer Alberto Urciada, said the boats will be a big boost to their response capability, to emergencies and calamities.

Each boat measures six meters and powered by a four-stroke 40 horsepower Honda outboard engine that can be used in running after smugglers and terrorist groups. It is equipped with search lights, anchors, and life jackets, among other necessities, he added.

Urciada said each speedboat has a monthly fuel allocation of P8,500, and can load more than 10 passengers during search and rescue missions. He could not say how much each unit costs, however.

The boats were tested yesterday, and it took only a few minutes to reach the island province of Siquijor, he added.

Urciada said two boats will be deployed during the fiesta in Apo Island on Saturday.

Island chief Liberty Pascobillo had earlier sought the help of the police in regulating the schedule of trips to Apo Island to avoid sea accidents, and to preserve its marine resources.*JG

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