(Photo courtesy of PCG)
The government is preparing additional buses, backup vessels, and emergency assistance for passengers ahead of the Undas travel rush, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure safe and orderly travel nationwide.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on Monday, October 26, instructed the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other concerned agencies to strengthen preparations for the expected surge of passengers at airports, seaports, and land terminals.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) anticipates between 1.5 million and 2 million sea passengers during the holiday period. Its Oplan Biyaheng Ayos will be implemented from October 29 to November 3.
Recto directed the DOTr to ensure sufficient public transportation and arrange additional vehicles when regular services cannot accommodate passenger demand.
Backup vessels may also be deployed to assist stranded passengers at ports, while the DOTr will coordinate with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to provide additional buses along routes expected to experience heavy passenger traffic.
Meanwhile, the DSWD will prepare food, drinking water, and other essential assistance for travelers affected by bad weather, transportation shortages, or unexpected disruptions.
The Department of Health (DOH) will also deploy medical personnel and provide emergency healthcare services at key transportation facilities.
“Ang gusto ng Pangulo, ligtas ang bawat biyahe at may agarang tulong kapag kailangan. Hindi sapat na maraming masasakyan. Dapat sigurado rin tayong ligtas ang mga pasahero sa kalsada, sa pantalan at sa mga terminal,” Recto said.
To strengthen security, Marcos ordered increased police visibility at major transportation hubs and other crowded areas.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) was instructed to intensify patrols, security inspections, and preventive measures against crime and potential threats, including the deployment of K-9 units.
Recto also directed concerned agencies to study the possibility of conducting random drug tests for public utility vehicle drivers, subject to existing laws and regulations, as an additional road safety measure.
He emphasized the need to minimize travel disruptions, particularly as rising fuel prices and the cost of basic commodities continue to affect commuters.
The government said the coordinated preparations aim to ensure that passengers traveling for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day have access to reliable transportation, adequate security, and immediate assistance when needed.
