Coast Guard: Fewer maritime accidents in 2010

As there were fewer storms last year, the number of maritime accidents was "much reduced" in 2010, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said. The Coast Guard also attributed the lower casualty to the government’s more proactive preparations and greater public maritime safety consciousness. "In the process and in line with Zero Maritime Accident Program, some 9,577 lives were saved during search-and-rescue and disaster response operations and hundreds of thousands of maritime travelers and affected residents were rendered the much needed assistance in the flooded areas," the PCG said on its website over the weekend. The Coast Guard said shipowners, crew, and the riding public are more aware about security policies. They also said the PCG has improved its maritime communications system, search and rescue methods, and "operational readiness" for emergencies. The PCG also enhanced it early warning and recall system for fishermen and shipping during adverse weather conditions. "Prompt (reporting) of perceived maritime safety violations including vessels carrying excess passengers, or with suspected overloading of cargo, lacking lifesaving appliances, or encountering engine derangements at sea, or running aground had averted more serious problems," the PCG added. With its QMS ISO 9001:2008 ISO Certified 24/7 Action Center, the PCG said its monitoring has improved and its response time to maritime incidents has become shorter. In 2011, the PCG expects to beef up its personnel strength, sustain its seaborne and air patrols, SAR/disaster response missions, and upgrade its equipment capability. "The PCG gears up this year to further enhance its presence, preparedness, partnership, professionalism, and passion to live up to its long tradition of service to the nation by ensuring safe, clean and secure maritime environment," the PCG said. – VVP, GMANews.TV