Manila: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez on Monday assured travelers that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and its attached agencies are ready to assist passengers affected by Typhoon Tino. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the DOTr to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers in all forms of transportation amidst the typhoon.
According to Philippines News Agency, Lopez stated that the department is prepared for the worst, especially regarding stranded passengers, emphasizing the need to ensure their safety within transportation infrastructure. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) have implemented a ‘no sail policy’ in ports across Batangas, Mindoro, Biliran, Leyte, and other affected regions.
PCG and MARINA are also tasked with ensuring emergency personnel, rescue boats, and safety equipment are present in all ports nationwide. The PCG has prepared 11,000 food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development for residents of Biliran and Southern Leyte. As of noon, 3,103 passengers, truck drivers, and cargo helpers were reported stranded in 83 ports, while 1,203 rolling cargoes and 61 vessels were also stranded, with 530 vessels and 389 motorbancas seeking shelter.
Lopez urged airlines and ship operators to promptly notify passengers of cancellations to prevent further stranding. He emphasized the responsibility of ship owners and the necessity for online ticket bookings, similar to airlines, which should inform passengers during adverse weather conditions. He also highlighted that airlines should not impose rebooking fees or additional charges for canceled flights, with optional refunds available for passengers opting for them.
In the road sector, Lopez instructed the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to monitor bus terminals and support stranded passengers. LTFRB chief Vigor Mendoza II advised bus companies and public utility vehicle operators to implement safety measures and urged the public to avoid non-essential travel in southern Luzon and parts of the Visayas.
