Every time there is a sea disaster, we focus our attention to the coastguard. Are the expectations for it to do well equal to the powers it is vested with? The Philippine Coast Guard must enforce laws, promulgate and administer rules and regulations for the promotion and safety of life and property at sea and the protection of the marine environment and resources. It must render aid to persons and vessels in distress and conduct search and rescued in case of marine accident within the maritime jurisdiction of the country. It must enforce and assist in the implementation of laws on fishery, immigration, tariff and customs, forestry, firearms and explosives, dangerous drugs, trafficking of women and children. It must enforce and assist in the maintenance of maritime law enforcement and security based on the applicable laws.

Coastguard. (2019, August 6). Panay News, p. 6.