OPLAN KALULUWA - UNDAS 2009

PCG Braces Up Port Security Measures In All Ports Nationwide
October 26, 2009

The Philippine Coast Guard braces up security measures on all ports and ferry terminals nationwide in connection with the DOTC-PCG’s eagle eye program “OPLAN KALULUWA”. Coast Guard Commandant ADMIRAL WILFREDO D TAMAYO PCG said that on top of the DOTC Passengers Assistance Centers (Help Desks) set-up nationwide to address the concerns of our sea-faring passengers, the heavy migration to the provinces for the All Saints’ Day observances prompted additional Coast Guard personnel deployment on all critical ports to ensure orderly, safe, convenient and secure sea travel.

He also emphatically directed ship inspectors and Coast Guard Canine teams to exercise extra vigilance in ports with random checks on passengers and luggages more than the usual. He appeals for the patient understanding and cooperation of the sea-faring public with regards to the tighter security steps enforced for the holidays to ascertain their travel safety.

Admiral Tamayo dislosed that as per coordination with the shipowners and operators, passengers should be at the seaport at least three hours before departure time, avoiding restricted cargo such as flammable liquids and solids, corrosive materials, toxic and infectious substances, compressed gasses, radioactive materials and explosives to avoid search delays and inconveniences. Gun owners bringing their firearms should present complete documents, including firearm licenses, permits to carry for the civilians, mission orders and / or letters from the AFP and PNP authorities. Admiral Tamayo also cautioned the sea-faring public from traveling with firecrackers. Last week, Dalahican Coast Guard enforcement team in Lucena City confiscated four hundred eighty thousand pesos worth of assorted firecrackers from a passenger.

He also added that the establishment of passenger assistance centers in all sea ports under “Oplan Kaluluwa” is in line with the directive of Secretary Leandro Mendoza of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to ensure a safe, orderly and secure sea travel during passenger peak season.

Passenger Assistance Center booths will be manned jointly by teams from PCG, Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary.

A useful tip for our brethren planning to travel south by sea this weekend

Capt Pax Sanchez

PMMA GS (MMET)