The number of passengers at the Bredco port in Bacolod City increased over the weekend, based on the latest data by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

PCG-Bredco officer-in-charge, Petty Officer 3 (PO3) Gerald Jade, said they estimate around 7,500 passengers passed through the port over the weekend.

The number of vehicles has also increased, he added.

Jade said they are expecting more passengers by October 31, when most private offices declare a half-day for their employees in order to allow them to travel home ahead of the All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day observances, which runs from November 1 to 2.

He noted, they routinely inspect ships before they leave, making sure they are not overloading passengers or cargo, and that the ships are in seaworthy condition.

Security protocols are also being strictly implemented with K-9 units roaming the terminal areas in order to stop any contraband from being smuggled out of the port.

“So far we haven’t recorded any incidents and the people are cooperative [with] the strict protocols we [have] implemented,” Jade added.

The PCG went on alert last Saturday, with over 100 personnel overseeing the security of the ports in Negros Occidental.

PCG-Bacolod station commander, Lieutenant Senior Grade Jimmy Oliver Vingno, earlier, advised passengers to book their tickets early to avoid any inconvenience./DGB, WDJ