Batanes PLGU issues guidelines on cargo vessels management in seaports
BASCO, Batanes, April 11 (PIA) – – – The acting governor of this province has met with representatives from the Provincial COVID-19, Philippine Ports Authority(PPA), Philippine Coast Guard(PCG) and Philippine National Police(PNP) to discuss various issues and concerns in view of reported lapses or breach of protocols in the Seaports of Batanes during the Enhanced Community Quarantine(ECQ).
Acting Governor Ignacio Villa earlier issued Executive Order no. 18 knowns as the ‘Guidelines in the Management of Cargo Vessels in the Seaports of Batanes during the Public Health Emergency brought by COVID-19.
Under the executive order, it shall be observed and implemented by concerned agencies to include PPA, PCG, PHO and the Department of Health(DOH).
During the meeting, it was agreed that all uniformed personnel shall secure all entry and exit points of Basco Port – NFA entry, Old Port, Kanyuyan Beach and De Sagon Area. PNP personnel and Barangay Tanods are to augment the PCG in securing the said entry and exit points.
Villa reminded that the assigned personnel should be more vigilant and stricter on any movement at night in all entry/exit points of Basco Port to make sure that no ship crew will go to the shores at night. The PCG shall conduct roving security patrol at night, he added.
The acting governor also said that all cargo vessels are not allowed to dock until the arrival of COVID 19 Screening and Quarantine Personnel and the African Swine Flu Task Force.
It was also agreed that disembarking of crew is not permitted, unless for medical purposes. Ground crews are also prohibited to board the said cargo vessels.
On the other hand, Villa issued a memorandum dated April 6to all ship and banca Owners reiterating the EO no. 18 s. 2020 and additional guidelines.
Under the memorandum, all cargo-passenger vessels servicing the island municipalities of Sabtang and Itbayat may continue to operate with the minimum number of required crew to ensure the unhampered movement of cargo.
The memorandum also states that cargo-passenger vessels may also board individuals who are exempted from the travel restriction upon showing proof of identity, permit from municipality of origin signed by the Municipal Mayor or IMT Head, and prior coordination with the municipality of destination. (MDCT with reports from PLGU Batanes/PIA-2)
source https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1038659