By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Thousands of Negrenses flocked to various transport terminals in Negros Occidental, particularly at the Bredco Port in Bacolod City, yesterday morning for the Holy Week break.

Hundreds of passengers arrived at the Simplicio Palanca Sea Terminal, as well as the roll-on/roll-off terminal, bound either for Iloilo City or Iloilo province’s Dumangas town.

Newly-appointed Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Northern Negros Occidental station chief, Commander Paterno Belarmino, Jr. said they have deployed 60 personnel to guard the ports in eight PCG substations in northern Negros.

The personnel are backed up by reservists from the Philippine Navy and Marine Corps, the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group.

PCG-Bacolod has not monitored any notable incidents as the number of passengers increased yesterday morning.

Passengers and vehicles were able to board their respective vessels throughout the day.

PCG personnel carefully inspected each vessel to ensure that it was not overloaded, that there were enough life jackets on board, and all safety equipment was working properly.

Several ferry operators have already announced that they will temporarily halt operations on Good Friday, March 29, while some will continue operating, albeit with a reduced number of trips.

Belarmino added that the PCG would remain on full alert status until April 2.

Meanwhile, the PCG Auxiliary 618th Squadron urged travelers to arrive at the port terminals at least two to three hours before their scheduled departure.

They said passengers must familiarize themselves with the emergency procedures while on the vessel./DGB, WDJ