‘Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2025’ gets going

Local

CROWDS are once again expected to fill ports, highways, and terminals for Undas, and Cebu’s transport agencies are stepping up early.

Both the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) and the Land

Transportation Office (LTO) 7 have launched their respective “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2025” operations to ensure a safe, organized, and secure travel period from Oct. 30 to Nov. 4.

The CPA projects that passenger traffic through Cebu ports could exceed 350,000 this year, up from more than 261,000 in 2024, as the holiday falls on a weekend.

To handle the expected influx, CPA General Manager Francisco C. Comendador III said the agency will conduct 24/7 security operations and maintain close coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine National Police, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and other law enforcement units.

The CPA will deploy explosive and narcotics detection dogs across terminals and work with the Cebu City Government for the installation of portalets outside passenger terminals.

It has also set up Malasakit Help Desks and first-aid stations in every terminal to assist passengers and respond to emergencies.

“Please, ayaw mo pailad aning mga ticket scalpers nga nagpalibot sa atong mga pantalan. They are just waiting for their next victims,” Comendador warned, reminding passengers to buy tickets only from official channels and use online booking options to avoid scams and long queues.

The CPA will strictly implement its “No Ticket, No ID, No Entry” policy and has ordered the monitoring of ticket scalping and porterage overpricing within port premises.

In Northern Cebu, Maya Port in Daanbantayan and Carmen Port in Carmen are fully operational, while Kawit Port in Medellin and Polambato Port in Bogo City have limited operations.

Hagnaya Port in San Remigio remains open except during high tide, while Sogod and Tabogon ports are closed.

Meanwhile, on land, LTO 7 has deployed personnel and enforcement teams across the region as part of its “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2025” campaign launched on October 28.

The initiative seeks to ensure road safety and prevent traffic-related incidents during the Undas observance.

LTO-7 Regional Director Glen G. Galario had earlier ordered all district chiefs, extension offices, regional law enforcement service personnel, and deputized agents to implement the oplan from October 20 to November 4.

“We have made initial inspections of our public utility vehicles region-wide to make sure that these vehicles are roadworthy. This gives them time to rectify any violations,” Galario said.

According to LTO 7’s pre-oplan records, 50 vehicles failed the initial inspection due to defective lights, wipers, and issues with brakes and signal systems.

The office required operators to correct these defects before resuming operations.

From Oct. 20 to 26, a total of 978 public utility vehicles were inspected. While no citations were issued, LTO 7 directed operators to make the necessary corrections before continuing to operate.

The agency also intensified its roadside enforcement, reporting 531 apprehensions between October 20 and 25 for violations of Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, including expired registrations and licenses.

Seventy-five motorists were cited under Republic Act 8750 or the Seat Belts Use Act of 1999 for failing to wear seat belts, while others were apprehended for offenses under the Children’s Safety on Motorcycles Act of 2015 and the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

All Department of Transportation (DOTr) agencies, including the LTO, will be on heightened alert from October 30 to November 4 in compliance with the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., through DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez and LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao.

Both agencies urged travelers to plan their trips ahead, follow safety regulations, and stay vigilant during the busy Undas weekend.

The CPA also advised passengers to arrive at ports at least two hours before departure, while the LTO reminded motorists to inspect their vehicles and carry complete documentation before hitting the road.

Emergency response units and monitoring teams will remain on standby throughout the period to respond to incidents and assist travelers, ensuring a smooth and safe journey for all commuters this Undas 2025.(MyTVCebu)