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MANILA, Philippines – In a state of fear and panic, can ordinary Filipinos on board a ship follow emergency signs written in English?
This was President Benigno Aquino III’s question as he inspected Pier 12 in Port Area, Manila on Tuesday, March 26, before the Holy Week exodus.
The President voiced his observations in an interview after visiting the pier, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), and the Victory Liner Bus Terminal in Pasay City.
“In the ship itself, the things I pointed out were, for instance, there are signs telling you where you’re supposed to go but they’re all in English. I said, ‘Shouldn’t we simplify the instructions?’”
Aquino added, “In the event that there’s an emergency and people are controlling their fear and panic, they may not be as logical. These are being taken care of now by both Marina and the Coast Guard.”
The Chief Executive was referring to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), under the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).
Aquino said he instructed DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio “Jun” Abaya and Coast Guard Commandant Rodolfo Isorena to enhance emergency procedures for passengers on ships.
Authorities informed Aquino that they arrested a passenger who was found to be in possession of shabu, an illegal drug.
“I think that’s an achievement. They really did thorough work to prevent all of this contraband from getting onboard,” Aquino said.
On the bus terminal, Aquino said he was satisfied with the Metro Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) efforts to test drivers and conductors for drug and alcohol use.
“They found one person out of everybody who’s driving or conducting the buses. So it’s impressive that we now have that equipment that is already being utilized to enhance the safety of our people.”
Aquino also approved of NAIA officials’ preparations but could not help but comment on the state of the airport of the country’s capital.
“NAIA complex, both Terminal 4 and 3, had very minor issues that I saw, mostly aesthetics of the airport. It is, after all, a 12-year-old facility,” Aquino said.
Many Filipinos traditionally travel back to their home provinces to mark the Holy Week in predominantly Catholic Philippines. Officials expect a greater volume of passengers leading to Holy Thursday and Good Friday, and after Black Saturday and Easter Sunday.
The DOTC launched last week its “Oplan Ligtas-Biyahe: Kwaresma 2013.” It will set up public assistance desks in all airports, seaports, and bus terminals in preparation for the Holy Week exodus.
For the emergency hotlines, view this list on the Official Gazette. – with a report from Ayee Macaraig / Rappler.com
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