15 NOVEMBER 2024 — The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) strongly urged the relocation of stranded passengers at ports due to the danger of storm surges brought about by Tropical Storm Pepito.
In a memorandum issued today, November 15, 2024, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago directed Port Management Offices (PMOs) to coordinate with local government units to promptly transfer stranded passengers to safer and more spacious evacuation centers.
According to the latest PPA report, 1,374 passengers were stranded as of 12 noon at ports in Bicol, Eastern Leyte, and Samar. Additionally, trips to and from Batangas, Mindoro, Bicol, Masbate, Panay/Guimaras, Eastern Leyte/Samar, and Western Leyte/Biliran have been canceled.
During the recent Typhoon Kristine, the most affected ports included those in Northern Luzon, Batangas, Bicol, MarQuez, Masbate, Mindoro, Palawan, Panay/Guimaras, Eastern Leyte/Samar, Western Leyte/Biliran, Bohol, and Lanao del Norte, including Iligan. Damages identified during the storm included broken gates, steel fences, solar streetlights, and roofing. Similar assessments are ongoing for ports affected by Typhoons Leon, Marce, and Nika, particularly in Bicol, Mindoro, Masbate, and Bataan.
Aside from providing "PPA-lugaw", the agency has prioritized facilitating relief operations by ensuring smooth cargo handling in partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and local government units.
"Bago pa man po dumating ang bagyo, nakalatag na ang ating mga safety measures at maging ang mga pagkain para sa mga pasahero. Bagamat hindi po mandato ng PPA ang magpakain sa mga pashero, nais po nating maging komportable ang mga pasahero habang nasa pantalan dahil wala namang nais ma-stranded dahil sa bagyo. Sa atin namang mga kawani sa ppa, nakalatag na ang ating standard operating procedures kapag ganitong masama ang panahon", GM Santiago stated.
In preparation for Typhoons Ofel and Pepito, the PPA has ordered pre-disaster risk assessments for all ports under its jurisdiction, prioritizing the safety of passengers and employees. Emergency response teams are activated, and emergency generators are ready. Ports are also providing hourly updates to ensure smooth operations and monitor the situation.
The PPA's social media channels are now operating 24/7 to inform the public about canceled and suspended voyages. Passengers are advised to check updates and confirm trip schedules before heading to the ports.
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