ILOILO – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Iloilo reported a total of 58,572 passengers, both inbound and outbound, passing through various ports in the city and province from March 28 to March 30, in observance of Holy Week.
Data from PCG-Iloilo’s “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2024 Situational Report” released on March 28 showed a total of 11,294 outbound and 10,599 inbound passengers at ports within the province, including Dumangas, Estancia, Bancal in Carles, and Ajuy.
These ports served as key access points for travelers heading to and from Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.
The PCG-Iloilo also monitored Parola Wharf and Lapuz Wharf in Iloilo City, which were used by travelers heading to the province of Guimaras and Bacolod City, respectively.
The PCG-Iloilo deployed 200 personnel and inspected 199 vessels and 80 motorbancas to ensure passenger safety.
On March 29, the agency monitored 8,770 outbound and 6,341 inbound passengers across all ports in the city and province.
Additionally, 200 personnel were strategically deployed, inspecting 168 vessels and 155 motorbancas.
The numbers continued on March 30, with 10,953 outbound and 10,615 inbound passengers monitored. The same day saw the deployment of 200 personnel who inspected 65 vessels and 189 motorbancas.
Under the leadership of Commander Jan J. Terazona, the PCG Station Iloilo, along with its sub-stations and all operating units, was placed on heightened alert from March 24 to March 31. This measure aimed to ensure the safety and security of passengers traveling in observance of Semana Santa 2024.
As part of their campaign to ensure safe travel during Holy Week, the PCG-Iloilo conducted seaborne patrol operations, baywatch patrols, monitored beachgoers, and posted safety reminders for the public.
They also continued operating Passenger Assistance Centers and help desks as part of the “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2024” initiative./PN
