‘Oplan Biyaheng Ayos’ in full swing

Local

CEBU’S ports and expressways are rolling out full-scale operations to ensure smooth, safe, and orderly travlers during the Holy Week.

The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) will activate Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2026 starting March 28, placing all Cebu ports under heightened alert until April 5.

The initiative aims to intensify security, passenger assistance, and safety measures in line with Department of Transportation (DOTr) and CPA guidelines.

CPA General Manager Francisco C. Comendador III said passenger welfare remains the top priority.

The CPA Operations Center will operate 24/7 to monitor port activities and respond promptly to concerns.

Random inspections and K9 operations will be conducted at terminals to detect explosives and illegal substances.

Augmentation support from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) will deploy additional personnel and K9 units for safety and anti-illegal drug operations in Cebu Baseport and other key ports.

Traffic management measures will be implemented at Pier 3 Passenger Terminal, including temporary closure of Primary Gate 3 from 5:00 p. m. to 9:00 p.m.

Vehicles heading to Pier 3 are advised to use Gates 1, 2, 5, 6, or 7.

First-aid stations and Malasakit Help Desks will also be activated at all ports.

Amid the ongoing global oil crisis, CPA urged travelers to expect possible fare adjustments and limited vessel capacities.

Passengers are advised to book in advance, use online booking platforms, and stay alert against illegal ticket sellers.

CPA is also reviewing port regulations and charges to mitigate operational costs while maintaining efficient services.

In 2025, more than 540,000 passengers traveled through Cebu ports during Semana Santa and summer; this year’s numbers may decline due to rising fuel costs.

Meanwhile, Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) and its expressways network, including Cebu Cordova Link Expressway, have launched Biyaheng Arangkada, a motorist assistance program running from 27 March to 6 April 2026.

The initiative is in partnership with the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) and the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) through PEA Tollway Corporation.

MPTC has increased personnel deployment to ensure smooth traffic, quick incident response, and efficient toll transactions.

Motorist support includes roadside assistance stations, standby medical teams, free 24/7 mechanical services, towing for Class 1 vehicles, EV charging stations, and free WiFi at select Rest and Refuel Stations.

Roadworks, lane closures, and maintenance will be suspended, while traffic teams remain on standby to implement counterflow schemes if needed.

Motorists are advised to plan trips ahead, check RFID balances, inspect vehicles, stay rested, and follow traffic rules.

Heavy northbound traffic is expected on NLEX from Wednesday afternoon to Thursday afternoon, and heavy southbound volume on Saturday, Sunday, and early Monday morning.(Kaiser Jan Fuentes)