With the expected passenger surge during the All Saints’ Day break, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is implementing stricter security checks at various ports to complement initiatives of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Maritime Industry Authority.
PPA is also making sure passengers waiting for their vessel boarding time will get free Wi-Fi access at 67 terminals nationwide, the port authority said in a statement.
PPA general manager Atty Jay Daniel Santiago said the initiatives comply with the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte to make sure travelers are comfortable, safe, and secure while at the terminals.
“While the expected influx of passengers is still a couple of weeks away, the PPA this early has already prepared our terminals with the proper safety and security procedures vis-à-vis their comfort and convenience,” Santiago explained.
“We can’t take for granted the security of our ports and the riding public. We should always be cautious and alert while making sure that passengers are comfortable while inside the terminals through the provision of free Wi-Fi access.”
He noted that “the ports are still on heightened alert since the (Sept 2) Davao bombing” but that the “PPA has further increased the security ante… keeping in mind first-class accommodation while inside port premises.”
The action plans include enhanced security procedures by maximizing the use walk-through and baggage x-ray machines, walk-through metal detectors, K-9 units, as well as continuing the visibility of PPA police and the security guards within the port area and passenger terminal buildings.
A well-ventilated and air-conditioned passenger terminal building with clean comfort rooms, nursing stations, and other travel amenities as well as round-the-clock medical and passenger assistance counters and help desks will also be provided.
To further facilitate procedures, PPA is asking passengers to segregate and declare metallic objects and bladed tools for industrial use so these can be tagged and turned over to the authorities for temporary safekeeping, for retrieval at the port of destination.
Vessel operators were advised to actively assist in information dissemination should vessel schedules change and to supply information on passenger accommodation in the succeeding trips.
