The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has set in motion “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos” for the Holy Week break lasting April 6.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) ordered all regional directors to initiate roadworthiness inspection protocols in bus and other public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals to ensure a safe travel during the Holy Week exodus.
In a related development, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reminded plane passengers to be at the airport at least three hours before their flights and ensure that all required travel documents are prepared in advance to avoid delays.
LTO chief Markus Lacanilo said initial steps began on March 23 to ensure safe, orderly and reliable travel for everyone.
The agency’s initiatives include patrolling against colorum or unlicensed vehicles, safety inspections of public transportation, random drug testing of drivers, and enforcement of laws such as mandatory seatbelts, bans on cell phone use while driving, and child safety in vehicles.
Lacanilao added that the agency also focused on ensuring that transportation companies charge reasonable fares and prohibited over-riding through the so-called mystery riders.
The LTO is working with the Philippine National Police, local government units and other government agencies to implement road safety measures.
Lacanilao said all law enforcers are deployed, and a 24/7 mobile command center service is stationed along major roads or highways for real-time traffic monitoring and immediate assistance to motorists.
“This initiative is important not only to prevent road accidents, but especially to help motorists who will be returning to their provinces for the holidays, as well as those who will be visiting various churches across the country to celebrate Holy Week,” he added.
LTFRB chairman Vigor Mendoza II said coordination with law enforcement and other government agencies, as well as local government units, should be done to maximize public assistance and the implementation of road safety rules.
“This is a yearly exodus and we expect more people and motor vehicles again to be on the road on their way to the provinces for religious activities, vacation and other activities,” Mendoza said.
“Our goal is to ensure the safety of commuters and other road users by ensuring the roadworthiness of buses and other PUVs, as well as the physical and mental readiness of the drivers,” he added.
Mendoza stressed the need for local LTFRB officials to guarantee that PUV terminal operators follow the rules and regulations regarding passenger safety and comfort.
“Aside from the safety of PUVs on the road, we also have to make sure that all passengers are comfortable and treated well inside the terminals,” he noted. “There must be no excuses, violators should be called out and asked to explain why they should not be penalized.”
Millions of people are expected to travel to the provinces and take advantage of the long Holy Week break.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the agency has deployed additional frontline personnel at major international airports to manage the expected surge in passengers during the peak travel period.
“We anticipate a significant increase in passenger traffic this Holy Week. Our officers are fully deployed to ensure smooth and efficient processing, but we strongly advise the public to arrive early and come prepared with complete documents,” Viado said.
Meanwhile, the BI said foreign nationals who have been in the Philippines for more than six months are required to secure an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) prior to departure. Registered foreigners holding ACR I-Cards are also advised to obtain re-entry permits ahead of time through BI offices or at the One-Stop Shop at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
On the other hand, Philippine government employees traveling abroad, even for personal reasons, must present a travel authority issued by their respective agencies while minors traveling alone are likewise required to secure travel clearance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
Viado said early processing of travel requirements would help decongest airport queues and ensure a smoother travel experience for passengers.
The BI reiterated its reminder for passengers to arrive early and proceed promptly to immigration processing to avoid inconvenience during the holiday rush.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “LTO enforces ‘Oplan Biyaheng Ayos’ for Holy Week travel”
