Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago has instructed all port officials across the country to start preparing contingency measures for worse case scenarios amid the threat of super typhoon Mawar which is expected to enter the country’s area of responsibility over the weekend.
“Mawar”, which will be named “Betty” once it entered the Philippine area of responsibility, is not expected to make a landfall but weather experts said it could bring more heavy rains in some parts of the country.
Santiago said he will personally monitor the preparations in over a hundred ports across the country, particularly on the aspect of ensuring the safety of passengers.
"My directive since this morning is to ensure that standard operating procedures are in place to protect life and properties at the terminals. I have reminded PPA staff and employees as well to make sure stranded passengers are taken care of with hot meals,” said Santiago.
“Our Port Management Offices (PMOs) were reminded to remain vigilant and be updated in the current situation on the ground,” he added.
Santiago said PMO Palawan and PMO Zamboanga have already taken precautionary measures in their respective areas as well, in case the supertyphoon hits their areas based on trajectory.
PMO Zamboanga, for instance, has started the reinforcement of loose structures and removal of light materials in the terminal while PMO Palawan started the safekeeping of cargoes that might be affected by the strong winds.
PPA will be posting social media updates 24/7 to remind the passengers and give timely information about cancelled trips and the "No Sail Policy" depending on the directive of the Philippine Coastguard (PCG) and Marina.
The PPA Emergency and Medical Teams are also on alert for any structural, health emergency, or any need to respond to sick calls while all vehicles are also on stand-by for any eventualities.
The Port Police Department together with its force multipliers have been ordered by PPA GM Santiago to prepare for the storm. The public is also being advised to check the social media page of PPA before heading to the ports.