PPA TMO Balingoan implemented Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2023 to provide responsive and reliable services in the Port of Balingoan. In line with this, the TMO will enforce heightened security measures to maintain peace and order and to protect port facilities. The TMO will also ensure a sufficient workforce by implementing a “no leave policy” until the end of the year. This measure supports the operation of the Malasakit Helpdesk, manned by various port stakeholders, addressing public queries for the smooth flow of passengers and rolling cargoes. Additionally, the TMO will oversee the orderly berthing allocation of vessels and ensure the provision of port facilities and amenities for the welfare of the riding public.

Further, it has been noted that Asian Marine Transport Corporation, Philstone Shipping Company, and Saint Benedict Ocean Shipping Lines have been issued an ORDER dated December 19, 2023, by the MARINA Region Office 10. This ORDER mandates the RELAXED from December 20, 2023, to January 3, 2024. Further, the mentioned shipping companies must strictly adhere to the conditions outlined in the ORDER. Such is to ensure the flexibility of operations, guarantee safe, reliable, convenient, and uninterrupted public transportation services, and prompt transportation of passengers and rolling cargo.

Furthermore, the PNP Maritime Group and PCG Balingoan Sub-Station are urged to augment their workforce for enhanced port security, focusing on the Passenger Terminal Building and the Port’s Main Gate throughout Christmas. This directive aims to maintain uninterrupted security operations at the port. PNP-Maritime also urged the body to strengthen security inspection in light of the upcoming anniversary of the CPP-NPA. Relative to this, the PNP-Maritime will spearhead a simple bomb detection drill today to raise awareness among security personnel.

Also, in light of the completed dredging maintenance operations at the Port of Balingoan, the new RORO ramps are anticipated to be utilized, mainly when the port elevation project is underway. Therefore, it is crucial to urgently install a sturdy post or bollard at the western end of these new RORO ramps. This bollard will stabilize authorized vessels using the ramps, particularly against the strong western wind monsoon. Thus, it strongly encourages shipping lines to pass a resolution supporting this need, and the TMO will escalate the matter to higher management to expedite the provision of this facility.

Lastly, the PCBSI PTMC, an authorized cargo handling operator of the TMO Balingoan, is urged to implement safe and efficient cargo handling operations at the port with the highest priority of ensuring the safety of passengers during embarkation or disembarkation from vessels. Additionally, the cargo handling operator must devise effective and systematic methods for loading, unloading, and marshalling all rolling cargo before and during the starting of the port elevation area following the phasing methods of such elevation project.