spot_img
28.4 C
Philippines
Friday, March 29, 2024

Tighter port security readied for Nov. 1

- Advertisement -

THE Philippine Ports Authority has tightened security checks in various ports nationwide in preparation for the upcoming All Souls Day holiday.

PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago said this is in accordance with President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to ensure that passengers 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,” he explained.

He said they have coordinated with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Maritime Industry Authority in terms of security, and are making sure that passengers waiting to board their vessel in 67 terminals nationwide would get free Wi-Fi access.

“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,” Santiago added.

- Advertisement -

The PPA chief said he has instructed all port managers to take the necessary measures to ensure that their ports are safe at all times.

“While the ports are still on heightened alert since the Davao bomb attack a couple of weeks ago, PPA has further increased the security ante but keeping in mind first-class accommodation while inside port premises,” Santiago stressed.

The Davao explosion killed 15 and wounded at least 69 others.

The PPA has ordered enhanced security procedures by maximizing the use of walk-through and baggage X-ray machines, walk-through metal detectors, and K-9 units, as well as continuous visibility of PPA police and security guards within the port area.

The agency will also provide well-ventilated and air-conditioned passenger terminals, clean comfort rooms, nursing stations and other travel amenities as well as round-the-clock medical and passenger assistance counters and passenger help desks.

The PPA, meanwhile, advised passengers to segregate and declare metallic objects and bladed tools for industrial uses so these items could be tagged and turned over for safekeeping, to be retrieved at the port of destination by their owners.

It has also advised vessel operators to be proactive in informing their passengers of changes in schedules and when they could be accommodated in succeeding trips.

- Advertisement -

LATEST NEWS

Popular Articles