BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The city government of San Carlos City in Negros Occidental has purchased a brand-new patrol and rescue boat to secure its coastal areas and for emergency purposes.
The brand new 36 Interceptor Open Fast Patrol & Rescue 36-Footer Speed Boat, with trailer and complete accessories, including medical and safety kits, was purchased through a public bidding.
It has a maximum speed of 45mph and a complete heavy duty fiberglass construction with narrow tunnel catamaran (tunnel hull design), over-all length of 38 feet with beam/width of 10 feet and draft of 1.5-2ft with capacity of 20 to 25 persons.
The P11.5 million vessel is also equipped with communications and GPS/Chart plotter equipment and complete radar with mounting, PA system, remote search light and LED blinkers.
City Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Officer Joe Recalex Alingasa Jr, disclosed that the rescue and patrol boat will be co-managed by the CDRRMO, City Environment Management Office (CEMO) -Coastal Resources Mgt Division, Philippine Coast Guard and PNP-Maritime Group for its patrol and rescue operations especially in the island of Sipaway and coastal barangays in the city.
Alingasa also thanked Mayor Renato Gustilo and the City Council headed by Vice Mayor Christopher Paul Carmona for their support in acquiring the vessel, which he said is very vital in the emergency needs of San Carlos City residents.*
