Philippines, Feb. 10 -- The Philippine Coast Guard in Bicol (PCG-5) has ramped up security measures at various ports in the region in preparation for the Holy Week and the upcoming national and local elections on May 12.

In an interview on Monday, Coast Guard District Bicol Commander Commodore Ivan Roldan said all Coast Guard stations and substations in the region have intensified patrols and inspections to ensure the safety of travelers heading to their respective provinces.

"We have deployed composite teams at each station, comprising K-9 units, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, and personnel at our sub-stations. All seaports are being monitored around the clock, in addition to our regular monitoring routines," he said.

Roldan...