Batangas Port passengers pass tight security during Holy Week exodus

Passengers at Batangas Port underwent tight security measures to ensure their safety during their trip to the provinces at the start of the Holy Week exodus, Vonne Aquino reported on GMA News’ Balitanghali on Monday.

Port security personnel inspected passengers' baggage, from which—despite reminders—they still found lighters and other items prohibited from being brought on board.

'Yung mga pasahero po natin I would advise huwag naman magdala ng sobra-sobrang daming kargada na pinagbabawal dalhin sa barko, katulad ng mga bladed weapons or deadly weapons. Huwag n'yo na pong dalhin," Batangas Port manager Leopoldo Biscocho Jr. said

Personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and port police were present to monitor the situation.

Help desks were set for government agencies who will give assistance to passengers with their concerns.

The Philippine Ports Authority said they have recorded 15,000 outbound passengers in the port from April 8.

Roll-on, roll-off or RoRo vessels are heading to Mindoro, Romblon, Caticlan, Abra de Ilog, Cajidiocan and Culasi, while fast craft vessels to Puerto Galera and Calapan.

On regular days, 8,000 embarking passengers are travelling through the port. But as of 7 a.m., around 3,000 embarking passengers were already recorded.

“Doon sa mga may available online booking, kumuha na sila online, o kung may ticketing offices doon sa labas, kumuha na sila before entering the port,” Biscocho added. — Joviland Rita/BM, GMA News