In a crackdown on illegal activities at Batangas Port, two individuals were arrested on December 23 for offering unauthorized expedited boarding services to motorists and passengers. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that the suspects were caught in the act of soliciting fees for faster vehicle boarding outside the port terminal.
The operation involved personnel from the Coast Guard Station Batangas, the Coast Guard Intelligence Unit of Southern Tagalog, and the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group in Batangas City. They arrived at the scene around 9 p.m. and seized evidence including mobile phones, marked money, and boodle money. The suspects were then handed over to the custody of the PNP-Maritime Group for further investigation.
One victim, a motorcycle rider traveling from Sto. Tomas, Batangas, to San Juan, Victoria, Mindoro, recounted being approached by the suspects along Diversion Road. They offered to speed up his boarding process for a fee of PHP1,000, payable upon successful boarding. The rider noted that two of his companions were also approached with similar offers, but the transactions were halted by the timely intervention of authorities.
The suspects now face charges under Article 318 of the Revised Penal Code for other deceit. The PCG has urged passengers and motorists to report any suspicious activities and avoid engaging with unauthorized individuals. In a Christmas Eve advisory, the PCG highlighted that such activities, which promise expedited services for payment, are illegal and unregulated.
The high volume of passengers and rolling cargoes at Batangas Port during the Christmas season has been identified as a factor contributing to the rise in illicit activities. Both the PCG and PNP have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the traveling public and ensuring lawful operations at the nation’s ports during the busy holiday period.
In related news, Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado encouraged the public to monitor the BI’s official social media platforms for real-time updates on passenger volumes during the holiday season. Viado emphasized that sharing these updates would help travelers plan their airport arrivals and avoid delays. The BI’s official page on Facebook provides real-time insights into airport activity, enabling passengers to anticipate crowding and adjust their schedules.
Viado also advised travelers to check in at least three hours before their flights and proceed directly to immigration clearance to minimize congestion. He stressed the importance of preparation during the busy holiday season, noting that early check-ins and direct movement to immigration counters can significantly reduce stress and enhance the travel experience. The BI reported smooth operations with no major incidents, and additional resources such as immigration counters, mobile units, and a rapid response team have been deployed to handle the increased number of travelers.