In accordance with its objectives in ensuring safe, secure, and sustainable port operations, the Port of Cagayan de Oro was conferred with the Safety Seal Certification by the Department of Interior and Local Government on Thursday, 17 March 2022, even exceeding the standards required.

An organization or establishment voluntarily applies for a Safety Seal Certification and submits the necessary requirements. A random onsite visit is then conducted by the authorized agencies namely: the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, the Department of Interior and Local Government, to inspect if the establishment has consistently implemented the minimum public health standards set by the government and integrated its contact tracing system. Once it is declared that the said establishment is indeed compliant with the provisions, the DILG issues the Safety Seal Certification.

The entire base port of the Port Management Office of Misamis Oriental Cagayan de Oro City was inspected by the DILG, PNP, and BFP on 17 March 2022 for the Safety Seal Certification. According to DILG CDO City Director Jane J. Docallos, the office has notably complied with all the items on the checklist and has exceeded the standards required for the certification. The buildings and facilities were praised for the consistent implementation of health protocols – from the air purifiers placed in every office to the organized Core Team Special Order with functions and disinfection guidelines already stated; the efficient usage of the Material Recovery Facility as temporary storage for collected infectious waste; and a special recognition was given to the new Passenger Terminal Building and its amenities for being equipped with facilities that ensure passenger safety, including the Beyondsight advanced surveillance system.

PMO MO/C has also required the establishments inside the port to apply for the Safety Seal Certification. In fact, the Philippine Ports Authority issued the Administrative Order No. 10-2021 “Implementation of Safety Seal in Ports” which covers all establishments inside the ports under PPA’s jurisdiction.

The Ports of Cagayan de Oro, Opol, Balingoan, and Benoni, all under the jurisdiction of PMO MO/C have been granted the Safety Seal Certification.