The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has activated its Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2017, putting all of its offices and attached agencies on heightened alert to ensure the safety and security of travelers during the week of All Saints’ Day/All Souls Day.
Oplan Biyaheng Ayos will be implemented from October 30 to November 6, when all transportation agencies are ordered to carry out 24/7 operations and provide assistance to motorists and passengers.
All transport terminals, booths, and counters must always be manned during the monitored travel period to ensure the safety of passengers as well as prevent long queues and untoward incidents. Concerned offices and agencies are
also directed to communicate accidents and emergencies in real time and keep all hotlines and feedback mechanisms operational and adequately manned.
Public advisories such as those on safety tips, common types of violations on expressways, and safety and security regulations at airports, seaports, and other transportation hubs will be issued. Tarpaulins bearing emergency and hotline numbers will be posted in conspicuous areas of the agency’s jurisdiction.
DOTr-attached agencies and offices are
also instructed to submit a post-Undas evaluation report.
The Philippine Ports Authority, for its part, has directed all port managers to plan and communicate closely and properly with port cargo handling operators and passenger terminal building operators forthe coordinated and smooth implementation of the oplan.
In a memorandum dated October 19, PPA general manager Atty. Jay Daniel Santiago said the expected increase in cargo traffic and passenger demand atports during the week of the holidaywill require additional resources and preparations to provide safety, security, and comfort to the traveling public.
The Philippine Coast Guard is also on full alert, setting up Passenger Assistance Centers at various seaports with expected heavy influx of passengers. Ship inspectors and K-9 units are being deployed to conduct random checks on passengers and luggage to ensure no dangerous cargo or explosives are loaded ontovessels.
Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific Air and subsidiary Cebgo, meanwhile, are reminding all passengers to allot ample time forcheck-in, security and immigration checks, and processing of pre-departure requirements to avoid getting stuck in long queues.
Photo courtesy of Manila North Harbour Port, Inc
