ILOILO CITY -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Iloilo is prepared for the influx of passengers as the Lenten season nears.
PCG-Iloilo commanding officer Lt. Rodolfo Dela Peña said they have already activated the “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos” last March 21 and are on “full force” to ensure orderly operation in various sea terminals here.
He said they have already established passenger assistance desks in each port terminals to address possible concerns and complaints from the passengers.
Each assistance desk has two coast guard personnel and representatives from other concerned agencies such as the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA), among others, he said.
There were also K9 dogs in each port terminal, he added.
Dela Peña said they are specifically focusing on the Iloilo Ferry Terminal and Ortiz Wharf in this city because they are expecting thousands of passengers to visit Guimaras Island for the “Pagtaltal sa Balaan Bukid”.
Last year, PCG recorded around 10,000-20,000 passengers who visited the island. Dela Peña said that they are expecting around the same number or more to go to the island next week.
Meanwhile, he said that they are still waiting for any notice from shipping companies about the reduction of the number of trips on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Black Saturday.
“We are yet to be informed by the shipping companies. Once we will receive notices from them, we will announce it immediately to the public for their guidance,” he said.
Dela Peña said that there are shipping companies during this season that have cut-off the number of their trips in the past.
Further, Dela Peña warned the public that they will be strict in their inspection.Carrying of illegal drugs and deadly weapons are strictly prohibited.
He also reminded the public to buy their tickets in advance, at least two to three days before travel, to avoid heavy queues in ticketing booths that sometimes lead to commotion. (PNA)
