Dumaguete: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Oriental is set to activate four new substations in the province to ensure faster response, an official said Tuesday. Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, commander of the Coast Guard Negros Oriental Station, indicated that substations in Vallehermoso, Bindoy, Tanjay City, and Manjuyod are awaiting activation.

According to Philippines News Agency, these substations already have assigned Coast Guard personnel, pending approval from the national headquarters. Agreements have been signed with local government units (LGUs) to utilize necessary buildings or spaces for the substations.

Currently, 12 active PCG substations operate in the province, located in Guihulngan City, Agyunon, Tayasan, Bais City, Amlan, Sibulan, Dumaguete, Bacong, Zamboanguita, Apo Island (in Dauin town), Siaton, and Bayawan City. Commodore Christopher Auro, commander of the PCG's District Southern Visayas-Negros Island Region, recently inspected some substations to assess their operational readiness. Auro encouraged LGUs to provide space for substations and sleeping quarters for personnel to improve response efficiency.

Enopia expressed hope that the tourist hub of Dauin, renowned for its beaches, marine sanctuaries, and Apo Island, will also allocate space for a substation.