All seaports in Cebu province will be on heightened alert during the Holy Week in anticipation of the exodus of travelers from other provinces, the local port authority here said on Wednesday.

Leonilo Miole, Cebu Port Authority (CPA) general manager, said in a forum that they have activated the “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2022″ as they expect an influx of passengers who are going to their home provinces for the Lent.

In compliance with Department of Transportation (DOTr) directives, the CPA will establish Malasakit Help Desks (MHDs) and first-aid stations in passenger terminals to attend to various passenger concerns.

“All ports in Cebu will be on heightened alert starting April 10, 2022-April 18, 2022 in anticipation of the surge in passenger traffic as Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) restrictions ease,” Miole said.

He said CPA will strictly impose the wearing of face masks, temperature check of passengers upon entry into the port passenger terminal facilities, and the ban on talking and taking of unnecessary phone calls.

CPA personnel will strictly enforce the rule on social distancing, especially in common areas such as canteens, lounges, open decks, and comfort rooms.

The protocols are consistent with the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) guidelines, he said.

“With eased travel restrictions, CPA together with partners from the maritime sector are working closely to further intensify our efforts to ensure the safety, security, order, and convenience of the traveling public,” Miole said.

He said only passengers with boat tickets and valid identification cards (IDs) will be allowed entry into the port at least two hours from the scheduled departure time.

Meanwhile, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents will continue to conduct random inspections and K9 sweeping as part of an intensified campaign to interdict drug couriers passing through seaports.

Philippine Coast Guard will also deploy bomb-sniffing dogs in port areas and passenger terminal buildings to prevent possible terror attacks. (PNA)