By Susan De Leon | Philippine Information Agency
CALOOCAN CITY – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) are constantly on the move, and have intensified their relief and rescue operations after Typhoon Odette struck Visayas and Mindanao.
This was after Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Art Tugade ordered its transport agencies to ramp up efforts and needed aid in affected areas.
“I ordered all transport agencies to make sure that areas that were badly-hit by Odette will receive needed aid and relief. Ang gusto ng Pangulong Duterte, ibuhos ang lahat ng kinakailangang tulong at ayuda sa ating mga kababayan,” Tugade said.
“We are in close coordination with the Office of the President to make sure that the directive of the President is implemented swiftly. Currently, the DOTr has mobilized its personnel, facilities, assets and resources to answer the call for assistance of our kababayans. Rest assured, we will deliver,” he added.
DOTr’s maritime sector has deployed its assets to conduct an aerial inspection, and deliver needed relief items, fuel, communication equipment, among others.
Stranded passengers are provided with light meals to ensure that their safety and convenience are maintained during their stay at the ports and terminals.
Moreover, ships are also being assessed, ensuring that they are seaworthy before they are authorized to sail again.
Meanwhile, the CAAP has begun with its efforts to restore airport operations and repair damaged infrastructure and installations and to oversee the condition of CAAP workers who were affected by the typhoon.
The DOTr and its attached agencies are one with the Filipinos as we rise upon the aftermath of the typhoon. (DOTr/PIA-NCR) – bny
