For November 1 and 2, Companies assure enough buses

CEBU, Philippines - Bus companies have assured the provincial government that they will be deploying most of their buses from October 30 to November 2 in anticipation of the influx of passengers for and All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

Provincial General Services Head Jone Siegfred Sepe said they have asked bus companies and operators at the Cebu South Bus Terminal, which is under the management of the provincial government, to deploy all its buses.

The province also asked the bus companies to ask for a special trip permit from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). Special trip permits are needed for buses and other Public Utility Vehicles that will service routes beyond their registered path.

Sepe said that Ceres Liner, for one, has committed that they will be adding buses, although the bus company hasn't specified just yet which routes the additional buses will cater.

He said PGSO will coordinate with LTFRB since six Suroy-Suroy buses will be deployed on October 30 and 31, four on the first day and two in the next.

Sepe said they anticipate a shortage of vehicles due to the slow turn-around time.

He said they have asked the local government units that have Suroy-Suroy buses to deploy the vehicles for two days.

Sepe said the administrator of the CSBT will determine the route of the Suroy-Suroy buses, depending on the need and the number of passengers on October 30 and 31. 

He stressed senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women and those traveling with children will be prioritized. 

Meanwhile, Department of Public Works and Highways 7 information officer Marie Nillama said ongoing works near cemeteries like the one in front of the Carreta Cemetery in Cebu City will be stopped temporarily on November 1 and 2 so as not to interfere with human traffic.

"Aron di gyud malangan ang atong katawhan inug agi, ipa-stop lang sa ang trabaho atubangan sa Carreta Cemetery," Nillama said.

In a separate statement, DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson said DPWH Regional and District Offices said contractors with on-going projects have to suspend further excavation or pavement removal activities and shall begin with the clearing of construction barriers including removal of idle equipment directly on site that may obstruct and affect traffic flow.

He added that DPWH personnel have also started implementing highway routine maintenance on pavements, bridges, and drainage, among others, leading to both public and private cemeteries. Traffic and regulatory signs will also be put up to ensure better and safer travel of motorists and commuters.

To manage road situations, DPWH will also field composite teams to strategic locations headed by an anchorman from the Regional and District offices.

DPWH will coordinate with LTFRB, Philippine National Police, and concerned local government units in the implementation of "Lakbay Alalay". — (FREEMAN)