Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 2) — The Department of Transportation has ordered stricter implementation of health protocols in public transport vehicles and terminals amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the country.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade has directed the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, and train marshals of all railway lines to ensure that physical distancing is being observed in public transport vehicles and stations.
Enforcers must also make sure that passengers wear their face masks, and prohibit them from talking or eating while inside the vehicles.
“The safety of commuters is paramount. We must make sure that health protocols are strictly implemented in all public transport vehicles and in all transport facilities,” Tugade was quoted as saying in a statement on Saturday.
He also urged commuters to do their part and not be complacent.
“We need everyone’s cooperation. We cannot do this alone,” he said.
Tugade also asked aviation authorities to revisit existing international arrival cap at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
“Let us continue to hold our guards up. If there is a need to reduce the cap on passenger arrivals, then let us implement in coordination with concerned agencies,” he said.
“Revisit the existing cap, let us make sure that the process if thoroughly observed, and in everything we do, make sure that we ensure the protection of our kababayans,” he added.
Tugade’s order came after the national government decided to place the National Capital Region under Alert Level 3 from Jan. 3-15 following the detection of three local Omicron cases in the country.
The country’s transportation chief also announced on Sunday that the agency will maintain the present 70% passenger capacity in all rail lines.
A random antigen testing will also be conducted to consenting passengers to control the spread of COVID-19 in the train lines.
“Passengers who volunteer to be tested will be permitted to proceed with their trip after testing, and will be informed of their test results by text message,” Transportation Undersecretary TJ Batan said.
