MANILA, Philippines — Up to 2,029 Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel have been deployed to 15 district offices nationwide in preparation for the expected influx of passengers going to the provinces to be with their families during the New Year revelry.
The PCG said the frontline personnel would inspect vessels and motorized boats to ensure smooth sea travel as well as the safety and welfare of passengers.
During the Christmas break, the PCG deployed 1,934 frontline personnel.
The PCG monitored nearly 120,000 passengers at ports across the country on Christmas Eve.
At the Batangas port, the number of passengers reportedly reached the pre-pandemic level.
The PCG said it would remain on heightened alert until Jan. 7, 2023.
It reiterated its advice to passengers to coordinate with the PCG through its official Facebook page or through cell phone numbers 0927-560-7729 for inquiries, concerns and clarifications regarding sea travel protocols to avoid inconvenience.