Question & AnswerQ&A (MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 4)
The purpose is to expand the application of Memorandum Order No. 3 (s.2016) to the Philippine Coast Guard and provide additional guidelines in implementing measures to suppress and prevent lawless violence, including in the country's maritime jurisdiction.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are covered, with emphasis on the PCG's expanded role under this order.
The PCG is established under Republic Act No. 9993, also known as the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009, tasked to assist in enforcement of laws on firearms, explosives, controlled chemicals, transnational crimes, and other laws within Philippine maritime jurisdiction.
PCG shall intensify inspection of merchant ships, surveillance and inspection of vessels and persons at sea, control vessel traffic, marshal passenger-laden vessels, and maintain a unified numbering system for Philippine-registered vessels.
Section 2 specifically states that all activities shall be carried out with due regard to the constitutional rights of every individual during enforcement measures.
The DOJ is directed to coordinate closely with the PCG and other law enforcement agencies for the prompt investigation and prosecution of individuals or groups apprehended for lawless violence.
The Department of Transportation (DoTr) is directed to supervise and coordinate the PCG's compliance with the directives.
Additional PCG units and personnel shall be immediately deployed in all Philippine ports, harbors, and major coastal areas to increase visibility and security.
It refers to the procedures and systems enforced by the PCG to ensure effective communication to detect and respond to threats against maritime safety and security promptly.