CH, DOTC ready for Holy Week

CEBU, Philippines -  The air, land and maritime sectors presented their respective preparations for the Oplan Ligtas Biyahe: Kwaresma 2013 yesterday at the Marina Conference Room in the Quimonda IT Center, North Reclamation Area.

Among their preparations are the installation of help desks and putting up of banners and signages for the riding public.

Mary Ann Dimabayao, officer-in-charge of the public affairs office of the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), said that they have been doing this annually.

“We have installed a DOTC action center, which serves as our Help Desk manned by MCIAA personnel from medical, police force and public affairs,” said Dimabayao, who also represented the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Association (MCIAA).

She added that they have also installed unified banners, streamers and signage in strategic areas at the Mactan airport, which carries DOTC’s hotline numbers for the riding public if they have any concerns.

In case of transportation shortage during the Lenten season, Dimabayao said that they will be fielding MCIAA buses or coasters for the convenience of the riding public.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) along with the Cebu Port Authority (CPA), MARINA and Philippine Port Authority (PPA) has also placed unified DOTC banner in their respective help desk in the port terminals.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will be conducting a random drug testing of the drivers and also put-up help desks in the bus terminals.

Meanwhile, Cebu City mayor Michael Rama is also putting in place security measures for the Holy Week.

“Apart from being a candidate, I am also the mayor of this city and it is my job to make sure that peace and order is in place,” said Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama in his regular Friday press conference.

“I will meet with the police and other law enforcement agencies to discuss the security for the upcoming Holy Week and the local campaign that immediately follows,” Rama told reporters.

He emphasized the need for law enforcers to be extra vigilant as lawless elements might sneak in and take advantage of the occasion.

“Because you know, when the cat is away, the mouse will play. We need to watch for these people who also strike in crowded places,” he stressed.

The police forces are especially reminded to guard against petty crimes committed by snatcher, hold-uppers, and pickpockets.

The start of the local campaign also welcomes an increase in numerous gatherings or “pulong-pulong.”

The mayor wanted tighter security in terminals and ports where commuters flock in heading to the province and back to the city come Easter Sunday.

“Kay bisan pa og kandidato sad ko sa umaabot nga eleksyon, (even if I am also a candidate in the coming elections) I am still the mayor and it is my responsibility to take care of the people of Cebu City,” he added.  (FREEMAN)