Philippine Coast Guard Enhances Operations Against Colorum Watercraft Ahead of Undas 2024
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) 7 (Central Visayas) has amplified its efforts to crack down on “colorum,” or unregistered motorbancas, in a bid to ensure passenger safety during the crucial travel period for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days. With many Filipinos setting out to honor their departed loved ones this holiday, authorities are urging travelers to avoid these unlicensed vessels to prevent inconveniences during their journeys.
Heightened Vigilance for Safe Travels
On November 1, 2024, Commodore Weniel Azcuna, the director of PCG-7, emphasized the dangers of engaging with motorbancas that have not undergone safety inspections. He highlighted that colorum vessels pose significant risks, as they do not meet the necessary safety regulations mandated by maritime authorities. "We are urging the public not to patronize unregistered motorbancas to avoid getting inconvenienced when these motorbancas are flagged down by your Coast Guard while traveling at sea," Azcuna stated during an inspection at Cebu City Pier 1.
A Busy Travel Period
As the observance of Undas draws near, airports and piers are experiencing an upsurge in passenger volume, with individuals eager to return to their home provinces. The PCG’s intensified inspections coincide with the Department of Transportation’s Oplan Biyaheng Ayos Undas 2024, aimed at facilitating smooth travel. Commodore Azcuna mentioned, "So far, your Coast Guard appears to be prepared. The situation in our pier area is manageable."
Travelers are encouraged to arrive at least two hours prior to their intended departure to avoid last-minute rushes and stress, as the Coast Guard aims to conduct thorough checks for compliance.
Prohibited Items and Safety Precautions
In addition to safety checks for registered vessels, authorities are also vigilant against prohibited and contraband items. Commodore Azcuna advised passengers to refrain from carrying items such as knives, lighters, and other sharp objects which can lead to delays and possible charges. He further suggested that travelers minimize their baggage to ensure a more comfortable journey.
Col. Antonietto Cañete, chief of the Cebu City police, echoed these sentiments during his visit to local piers. Cañete noted that security measures are being enforced at major cemeteries, with police personnel vigilantly monitoring and confiscating prohibited items.
A Peaceful Observance
As the major cemeteries opened on Friday, authorities reported no significant incidents, thanks to the comprehensive security measures put in place. Col. Cañete reinforced that 2,000 police officers have been deployed to secure 15 public and 11 private cemeteries in the area. Additionally, personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection, along with paramedics from the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Philippine Red Cross, are on hand to assist in maintaining peace and order.
Encouraging Safe Practices
The heightened focus on maritime safety and public security exemplifies the Philippine government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and peaceful observance of Undas. As the holiday continues, both the Coast Guard and the local police are working tirelessly to protect travelers and their families.
Travelers are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments section below or to reach out on social media to spread awareness about the importance of using licensed boats for safe and hassle-free travel.
For more insights into the latest updates from the Philippine Coast Guard, visit their official website or follow their updates on social media, where they continuously share crucial safety information and guidelines.
