00:00Following Malacanang's declaration of a half-day work suspension in government offices this Holy Wednesday,
00:05passengers took this opportunity to travel and kick-start their vacation.
00:10As a result, an influx of travelers was recorded in Davao City, prompting government agencies to take action.
00:17We have LJ Sagang in Davao reporting for us live.
00:23As the day progressed, the surge of the passengers have become more evident here at Davao City Overland Transport Terminal
00:31or DICOT,
00:32with travelers rushing to secure their trips during the peak hours.
00:37This follows the directive of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declaring a half-day work schedule in government agencies this Holy
00:44Wednesday.
00:45At the terminal, strict security measures are in place.
00:49Baggage is checked one by one through x-ray scanners, while personnel from Task Force Davao and police remain on
00:56standby to maintain order.
00:58Authorities have also conducted inspections of bus units.
01:02Some drivers were flogged for major safety violations, including cracked windshields which pose risks to passenger safety.
01:09Despite the growing number of travelers, terminal management assured that monitoring continues around the clock.
01:16With additional trips ready to be deployed if needed.
01:19They also warned the public against online reservation schemes for bus seating, stressing that tickets must be purchased in person
01:27at the terminal.
01:29Meanwhile, more passengers are also heading to Island Garden City of Samal or Igakos via seaports in Davao City.
01:36According to the Philippine Coast Guard, a heightened alert status is now in effect, with over 900 personnel deployed to
01:45secure ports and coastal areas.
01:46Strict implementation of pre-departure inspections, passenger manifest checks, and anti-overloading measures is in place to ensure the safety
01:55of travelers.
01:56The Coast Guard is also targeting zero drowning incidents throughout the Holy Week observance.
02:02Based on the latest monitoring, authorities expect an even higher volume of passengers later tonight and in the coming days.
02:10Despite this, government agencies assure the public that systems are implemented to ensure orderly, safe, and efficient travel during the
02:20Holy Week.
02:22LJ Sagang from the National TV Network for a new and better Philippines.
02:29Many thanks to LJ Sagang from PTV Davao.
Comments