Travelers across Negros and the entire Western Visayas flocked to terminals last Friday afternoon in order to make it home for Christmas Day celebrations.

Based on monitoring by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. last December 21, around 4,893 outbound passengers passed through Negros and Siquijor, with 1,179 recorded in Negros Occidental alone.

The PCG in Iloilo, meanwhile, recorded 11,353 outbound passengers.

A total 14,548 was recorded for the entire Western Visayas.

At the Bredco Port in Bacolod City, PCG, along with the port guards and Police Station 2 personnel strictly implemented security protocols.

Baggage was passed through x-ray machines and passengers were regularly searched for any contraband or deadly weapons.

K-9 units were also patrolling and randomly checking passenger bags and luggage.

Bredco staff admitted that some passengers complained about the strict measures, although a majority positively welcomed the actions, citing safety.

The PCG also carried out inspections of ships prior to leaving port, making sure they were not overloaded with passengers and cargo./DGB, WDJ