MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) has deployed two patrol boats to help enforce the travel ban in Metro Manila waters.
"For the sea travel, the Philippine Navy is under the TG (Task Group) Laban Covid-19 Water Cluster headed by the PCG (Philippine Coast Guard). As for the PN’s effort, we already deployed two patrol boats to conduct maritime patrol (MARPAT) from HPN (Headquarters, PN in Roxas Boulevard) to MOA (Mall Of Asia) patrol area (Water Sector 5). This is the designated area given to us by the JTG (Joint Task Group) SEA," said PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, in a message Tuesday when asked for updates on the Navy's countermeasures against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
These vessels are to be supported by rigid-hulled inflatable boats and patrol launches from the Navy Special Operation Group if needed.
"Our task here is to take the temperature of the passing boats and turnover those with above 37.5 degrees Celsius to the medical team at Interagency Command Post stationed in the CCP (Cultural Center of the Philippines). Large vessels to and from ports will be handled by PCG (Philippine Coast Guard)," Roxas said.
Earlier, the PCG said it will be implementing a "no-sail" policy following the government's decision to place Metro Manila in a community quarantine last week.
On Monday, President Rodrigo Duterte placed Luzon under enhanced community quarantine which orders restrictions on land, domestic sea and domestic air travel to and from the island. (PNA)
