PDEA conducts sweeping operations at terminals

By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Region 6 (PDEA-6) conducted sweeping operations at various terminals in the Western Visayas as part of the Holy Week observance.

PDEA-6 operatives also utilized K-9 units in searching passenger bags at the Bredco Port in Bacolod City and Dumangas port in Iloilo.

In addition, PDEA interdiction teams were dispatched to the Iloilo International Airport, Bacolod-Silay Airport, along with bus terminals in Iloilo City and Bacolod City.

The sweeping operation was part of Oplan “Huli Week,” which kicked off last Monday.

PDEA advocacy materials were also distributed to the riding public.

The ongoing efforts are in line with tightened security measures at ports across the Western Visayas to ensure illegal drugs are barred from entering the region.

Last week, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Occidental raised their alert status.

In a statement released by the PCG’s “Tanod Baybayin” social media page, all PCG units were ordered to “brace up” security and safety measures at all ports and ferry terminals not just for the Holy Week but for the rest of the summer vacation period.

K9 teams, special operations forces, harbor patrollers, and ship inspectors stationed at ports were also directed to exercise extra vigilance when inspecting passengers and luggage to maintain travel safety and security.

In addition, medical teams will be ready to provide assistance in emergency situations.

Earlier, PCG-Negros Occidental chief, Commander Ludovico Librilla, Jr., said they will be conducting strict monitoring of all vessels in the province to make sure they are all in working order and not overloaded.

The PCG official also advised travelers to show up at terminal at least a few hours before their scheduled departure.

He added, travelers should also avoid carrying contraband such as firearms and bladed weapons./DGB, WDJ