PCG tightens maritime security in ports ahead of 'Undas'
Oplan Biyaheng Ligtas to be implemented from October 30 to November 4
A Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel assists a passenger disembarking from MV Masagana at the Manila North Harbor Port on April 15, 2025. (File photo: PCG)
Two weeks ahead of this year’s observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day on Nov. 1 and 2, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has already begun implementing stricter security preparations in all ports nationwide.
PCG Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan said this was part of their preparations for the “Undas,” during which the agency will place its districts, stations, and sub-stations on heightened alert under “Oplan Biyaheng Ligtas.”
“Starting October 30 up to November 4, we will implement Oplan Biyaheng Ligtas. As we do every year, we are intensifying our inspections before vessels are allowed to sail,” Gavan said on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
Under Oplan Biyaheng Ligtas, heightened security measures will be observed in ports and coastal areas. There will be an enhanced deployment of PCG personnel and K9 units, as well as inspections of vessels and passengers, and maritime search and rescue readiness.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez directed all PCG units to ensure safe and orderly sea travel during the long weekend. The PCG is an attached agency of the DOTr.
Gavan said that PCG personnel are deployed to conduct pre-departure inspections to check the seaworthiness of vessels, verify passenger manifests, and remind ship captains of their duty to uphold safety at all times.
“We make sure that the vessels will be in safe condition, their machineries are functioning properly, and all passengers are listed in the manifest. The captain is required to sign the Master’s Declaration of Safe Departure as a reminder that the safety of the ship is his responsibility,” Gavan emphasized.
Millions of Filipinos are expected to travel to their hometowns for the observance of Undas.