DOTr intensifies transport hub safety amid 2019-nCoV case

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is intensifying safety measures in the country's transportation hubs following the confirmation of the first novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) case in the Philippines.

DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade stated that safety protocols were already in place at transportation gateways as early as January 23, even before the first case was recorded.

The DOTr is collaborating with the Department of Health (DOH) and the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ) to bolster security at transport terminals and monitor arriving passengers.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has reactivated its communicable disease preparedness procedures in all CAAP-operated airports, particularly international gateways, to prevent the spread of the virus.

Airport personnel are instructed to practice proper hygiene, regular handwashing, and heightened vigilance when handling passengers, with a focus on monitoring potentially infected individuals.

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is working closely with the BoQ to support their safety protocols at the country's main gateway, including a dedicated lane for quarantine thermal screening.

The Civil Aviation Board (CAB) resolved to suspend air services between Wuhan and the Philippines, and required air carriers to monitor events in China and other countries, and to ensure passengers and crew complete a Health Declaration Checklist.

Directives have been given to Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) operated ports and the Philippine Coast Guard to implement strict passenger screening and safety measures, with stringent security in tourist areas like Bohol and Caticlan.