DOT, Marina seek solution to boat congestion in Puerto Galera

MANILA, Philippines -  The Department of Tourism (DOT) is currently working with the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the Puerto Galera local government to determine the best way for boats ferrying passengers to and from this favorite tourist spot to drop off and pick up passengers so the beaches would not be crowded with bancas.

Tourism Secretary Alberto A. Lim said that docking of boats anywhere on the beach has become a concern because it disturbs guests and endangers those wading or swimming by the beach.

That is why they are studying what will work best given the local conditions in Puerto Galera. Will it be a few ports strategically located on the long stretch of beach? Or would it be a single port?

DOT is also working closely with Marina to ensure passenger safety and professional operations. “We are working with Marina to impose stricter standards on all seacrafts crossing the channel. Larger seacraft are generally safer. They are also more professionally run,” Lim said.

Earlier, a tourist and his family complained about the poor service rendered by some liners servicing the Batangas — Puerto Galera route.

The tourist said some boats are regularly delayed to the consternation of most passengers whose times are wasted. “It is such a disgrace to both local and foreign tourists,”the tourist said.

It was noted that passengers sometimes have to wait for almost two hours just for the boat to set sail and way past the time indicated on their tickets.