Lucena City, Quezon — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Tuesday deployed two multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) to ferry stranded passengers from the Port of Lucena to San Agustin, Romblon, amid a shortage of commercial passenger vessels during the peak holiday travel period.
The deployment, ordered by PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, followed guidance from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure the safe and timely movement of passengers affected by limited sea transport ahead of Christmas.
At around 6 a.m., BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406) transported 75 passengers who were unable to secure commercial passage from Lucena, Quezon. Another vessel, BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410), remains on standby at the port to accommodate additional travelers.
The operation was carried out in coordination with the Department of Transportation, led by Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez, as authorities moved to address bottlenecks in inter-island travel during the holiday rush.
Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog Commander Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla said the ferrying operation is being conducted in strict compliance with maritime safety and security protocols.
The PCG said the move highlights its role not only in maritime safety and security but also in humanitarian assistance, particularly during periods of heightened travel demand, as thousands of Filipinos journey home to their families for the holidays.