Lenten holidays prompt passenger traffic surge (Banner)

CEBU, Philippines - Zest Airways Inc. Cebu station manager Ruscell Castro said the passenger load has increased from 10% to 20% compared to regular days and the most travelled flight is from Manila to Cebu.

She added that since the company is implementing strict policy on counter flows and quick turn-around, passengers should arrive at the area two hours in advance before the departure time and to observe the 45-minute closure of the counters.

Castro advised that travelers should read the ticket first to avoid confusion and to take note that the time of departure is based on military time.

“They must also be cooperative. We usually understand our passengers and we always extend what we can offer to them,” she said.

Meanwhile, Weesam Express General Manager Gerard Hinolan said that as of April 1, there is a 50 to 60 percent increase of passengers as compared to ordinary days. However, he added that the passenger load during the Holy Week on 2011 is greater by 30% to 40 % this year.

The Cebu-Ormoc route, according to Hinolan, has more bookings with an average of more than 100 passengers last week compared to Cebu to Tagbilaran route, resulting to fully-booked trips already.

With such congestion, he added that passengers must take note that Weesam will not charge anything to 15-kilo baggage or less than that and if it goes beyond the limitation, there shall be an added P10 cost per kilo or if much heavier, the Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ships are recommended.

Hinolan also observed that travelers are more disciplined and well-organized nowadays and if ever they need assistance, helpdesks from the Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), Department of Transportation and Communications and Cebu Port Authority are available.

On the other hand, since most of the passengers prefer fast crafts for its speedy and convenient trip, Golden Star Manning and Ship Management Corporation also had its first service this Lent season for their fast crafts plying the Cebu-Camotes route which was newly introduced last month.

Imee Irene Matuguinas, Golden Star Administrative Secretary, said that the passenger load has increased by 80% from 30% rate in its usual day-to-day operations. She added that in times of traffic congestion, passengers must be vigilant with their valuables as a form of caution against pickpockets during such rush hours.

Though the sea trip can be rough, Matuguinas noted that travelers need not worry since licensed and well-trained captains and well-oriented port crews will provide them quality service all throughout the ride. (FREEMAN)