Aquino issues guidelines to ensure public safety, order during Holy Week

MANILA (PNA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III has directed concerned government agencies to ensure public safety and comfort in view of the annual exodus of people who will spend Holy Week in the provinces. Tiyakin ang kaligtasan at ginhawa ng mga mamamayan sa kanilang paglalakbay sa darating na Semana Santa -- iyan ang mahalagang tagubilin ni Pangulong Aquino sa lahat ng mga ahensya ng pamahalaan, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said on Friday.The President's directive told agencies to ensure order in major bus terminals, seaports and airports, Secretary Coloma said. Iniutos din niyang bigyan ng mabilis na pagtugon ang mga pangangailanan ng mga mamamayan sa pamamagitan ng pagtatatag ng mga public assistance desks sa mga terminal na inaasahang dadagsain ng libu-libong pasaherong maglalakbay, he added.The President specifically instructed the Toll Regulatory Board to ensure that motorists pass the major expressways with ease and to prevent long queues of vehicles at the toll gates.He also wants the Department of Transportation of Communications (DOTC) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to make sure that there are enough buses to avoid overloading, and that only legitimate buses ply their intended routes, Coloma said.The DOTC, Coast Guard and airport authorities must ensure that piers and airports are orderly, that safety devices are in place, and that public assistance centers or desks are available to help passengers, Coloma said.The President further directed the DOTC and the Coast Guard to see to it that only passengers listed in the manifest of ships could board, and that all ships servicing different destinations must be seaworthy.Coloma further said that the Department of Public Works and Highways must make certain that roads are passable and in good condition, and that repairs must be completed to avoid traffic congestion.Public assistance centers should be set up in strategic locations to help motorists encountering problems, and the police must carry out measures to maintain peace and order, he said.He noted that the President instructed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to be on alert to immediately respond to any emergency, such as accidents, fires, and crimes and the Metro Manila police to intensify Oplan Lambat Sibat to prevent crimes.Moreover, the President ordered health authorities and personnel to be ready to respond to road accidents, illnesses that arise during summer, and other emergencies.The President also wants the Department of Energy to ensure a steady supply of electricity during the Holy Week.President Aquino is advising the public to exercise extra caution while on the road, follow traffic rules and guidelines, control their temper, bring first-aid kits and medicines, and secure their homes before leaving, Coloma said. (PNA)RMA/PND/SSC