By Alexandria Denise San Juan
Ahead of the holiday rush this Christmas season, transportation agencies are set to go on heightened alert for the anticipated heavy traffic volume in Metro Manila.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade (PCOO/Manila Bulletin)
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) launched on Wednesday "Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2018" to ensure safe, secure, and comfortable travel for passengers in the approaching Christmas break.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said the DOTr vowed to assist Christmas travellers. The "Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2018" will run from December 10 until January 5, when the influx of people going back to Manila is expected.
In a memorandum issued by DOTr Assistant Secretary for Special Concerns Manuel Gonzales, attached agencies are tasked to implement round-the-clock operations and ensure direct communication lines with the Department Action Center during the oplan.
All booths, counters or centers are to be properly manned during all operating hours to prevent heavy queues, the memo stated.
Incidents will also be reported in real time, and regular updates in all matters concerning the program will be posted on websites and social media accounts of the DOTr and its attached agencies.
Public advisories such as safety tips, common types of violations on expressways, and documentation requirements and safety and security regulations at airports, seaports, and other transportation hubs will be disseminated.
For concerns of passengers, tarpaulins containing emergency and hotline numbers will be posted in areas within the jurisdiction of the DOTr and its attached agencies.