CARACAS, June 26 (Xinhua) -- Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez said Friday that La Guaira state, which was hard hit by Wednesday's twin earthquakes, had been placed under military control to facilitate rescue efforts and ensure security.

"We want to tell everyone that La Guaira state is now fully militarized and fully under the control of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces," Rodriguez said during a televised briefing.

Rodriguez said acting president Delcy Rodriguez had ordered the measure to ensure public safety, maintain internal order and facilitate rescue operations by Venezuelan emergency responders and international rescue teams.

He said the majority of rescue personnel were operating in Caraballeda, Macuto, Los Corales and Catia La Mar -- areas that had been severely affected by the earthquakes.

Rodriguez called on the public not to travel to La Guaira to avoid congesting evacuation routes and routes used for transporting rescue teams and equipment.

He also called on Venezuelans to donate supplies including water, food, mattresses, clothing, blankets, light and heavy equipment including earthmoving machinery, through collection centers set up in Caracas.

He thanked thousands of volunteers, officials and rescue organizations for their tireless efforts to save lives and assist those affected. ■