On the order of the Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade the Philippines Coast Guard (PCG) has taken over the security of all the country’s ports from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Port Authority (PPA).The move was said to be part of a governmental implementation of state security over threats posed by the Maute Group, also known as Islamic State of Lanao, which has surrounded Marawi City.
The PCG is now mandated among other things to control movements of all vessels in ports and harbours and to inspect loads. This entitles the right for PCG to arrest, seize and detain persons, cargo and vessels found to have broken maritime security or other relevant laws. The order will continue until martial law in Mindanao is lifted.