MANILA, March 14 -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has intensified its maritime patrols following the recent recovery of PHP122.7 million worth of suspected cocaine in the waters and shorelines of Eastern Visayas and Northeastern Mindanao.

In a statement Thursday, PCG Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan ordered PCG districts to intensify monitoring of vessels and intel operations, expand coastal security patrols, and coordinate with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units to augment anti-illegal drug operations, especially in the eastern seaboard of the Philippines.

PCG personnel were also directed to strengthen local fisherfolk networks within their areas of responsibility for ...