PCG to run Pasig River ferry service

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) yesterday signed an agreement for the operation of the Pasig River ferry service, which is meant to help in decongesting traffic in Metro Manila.

“We are hoping that there will be a high ridership. The intention is to decongest traffic. We are hoping that students, such as schools in the University Belt and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, would patronize the ferry service,” said PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo.

The PCG will operate the ferries, but the earnings will go to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

Under the memorandum of agreement also signed by the MMDA, Balilo said that the PCG would also be in charge of repairs and regular maintenance of the ferries.

The PCG will also be required to conduct pre-departure inspections onboard ferries to ensure commuter safety, conduct emergency readiness evaluation with crew and passengers and launch search and rescue operations during maritime incidents within the vicinity of waters off Pasig River.

“As Metro Manila passengers find it more difficult to commute this holiday season due to the increasing number of vehicles in the National Capital Region, it is high time for the PCG and MMDA to work together and provide a practicable alternative that will allow them to save time and energy, especially during work days,” said PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.

The ferries would reportedly follow the designated route from Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City to Escolta, Manila and vice versa.

Acting MMDA Chair Romando Artes said he recognized the PCG’s competence and proficiency in operating, maintaining and securing the Pasig River ferry service.