Transportation dep’t activates ‘OPLAN Ligtas Biyahe’

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has activated “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe: Undas 2016”  to help millions of motorists and travelers get to their destinations during the long All Saints’ Day weekend.

In a press statement, DOTr said it had “directed all its attached agencies to be on heightened alert status to guarantee the security and safety of passengers traveling during the Undas period” and to make sure all public hotlines are operational and properly manned.

As part of this program, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will inspect buses to ensure its road worthiness and the safety of passengers. Help desks will also be placed in terminals to respond to queries and concerns of commuters.

The LTFRB will issue special permits to bus operators valid from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3, as more buses will be needed to transport those who will be traveling to their respective provinces.

Similarly, the Land Transportation Office will enhance its public assistance programs by prioritizing tasks in line with guiding motorists.

Additional personnel

Meanwhile, the Toll Regulatory Board will deploy additional personnel at toll plazas where traffic buildup is expected.

For its part, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has created a special management team composed  of airport managers to personally oversee the operation during the peak days.  Passengers can also ask for assistance and information from help desks staffed by MIAA personnel, airport police and medical teams.

The Philippine National Railways will maintain its present number of train trips in the Metro Manila South Commuter and Bicol Commuter Services.

There will be 36 daily trips from Tutuban to Alabang (Mamatid) and four from Naga to Sipocot. One-stop help desks will be set up in terminals and stations and quick response teams will be activated.