ILOILO City – Bracing for a surge of sea travellers and possible maritime emergencies during Holy Week, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Western Visayas has gone on full alert, deploying over 260 personnel across key ports to prevent overloading, check vessel safety, and deter the operation of undocumented motorboats.
The heightened alert, which began Sunday, April 13, and runs through April 20, is part of the national “Oplan Ligtas Byahe: Semana Santa 2025” initiative aimed at ensuring passenger safety as thousands flock to their home provinces.
Tension is already building at ports across the region. On the first day alone, PCG units inspected 26 vessels, 125 motorbancas, 1,647 rolling cargoes, and recorded 13,455 outbound passengers and 12,708 inbound travellers.
The Coast Guard anticipates a heavier rush starting Wednesday afternoon, April 16, when travellers begin their exodus to the provinces, followed by another spike on Sunday, April 20, as people return to work.
“We urge passengers to travel early and avoid the last-minute rush, especially those with children and senior citizens,” the PCG-WV reminded. “Be vigilant and prioritize safety.”
Frontline units have been stationed across five key stations — Iloilo, Guimaras, Capiz, Antique, and Aklan — to conduct intensified inspections on vessel seaworthiness and enforce regulations against overcapacity and illegal operations.
To further assist the public, Malasakit Help Desks have been activated in all ports, manned by Coast Guard medical teams and pre-departure inspection personnel to respond to inquiries, emergencies, and provide medical support.
Rescue boats and other floating assets have also been prepped and positioned for rapid deployment in case of sea mishaps.
For concerns or emergencies related to sea travel, the public may reach the nearest Coast Guard station through the following hotlines:
* Coast Guard Station Iloilo – 0935-659-0186
* Coast Guard Station Guimaras – 0935-659-0186
* Coast Guard Station Capiz – 0963-800-8443
* Coast Guard Station Antique – 0931-716-0156
* Coast Guard Station Aklan – 0961-420-2796
The PCG has vowed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance as ports in Western Visayas brace for one of the year’s busiest travel seasons./PN
