DOTr, PCG full alert for undas travel

By Nimfa L. Estrellado DOTr, PCG impose strict safety mandates as 'Oplan Undas' mobilizes ports, road checkpoints. ( Coast Guard Di...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

DOTr, PCG impose strict safety mandates as 'Oplan Undas' mobilizes ports, road checkpoints. (

Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - To manage the holiday passenger surge, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) placed the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL), which covers the coastal provinces south of Manila, on a heightened alert status from October 30 until November 4, 2025, to ensure the safety, security, and convenience of sea travelers during the nationwide observance of Undas.

As a result, CGDSTL personnel in Batangas, Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Quezon accelerate port monitoring, passenger assistance, and maritime safety operations. They manage the massive influx of sea travelers heading to provinces for the long weekend from October 31 to November 2 and the observance of All Saints' and All Souls' Day from November 1 to 2.



Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan PCG directed the heightened alert status under the umbrella of "Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2025." This plan standardizes government efforts to ensure smooth travel across land and sea during peak holiday seasons.

DOTr's Crackdown on Impaired Driving

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced a massive land transport safety crackdown supporting the comprehensive Oplan, with Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez confirming strict inspections on public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators. Enforcement activities prioritize key provincial transport terminals across Batangas, Quezon, and Mindoro.

Inspections feature random drug and alcohol testing for PUV drivers, while the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) coordinates efforts to prevent impaired driving. The PDEA ensures immediate, round-the-clock drug screening is available at major land terminals throughout the period, covering drivers of buses and vans.

"The inspections are ongoing. In the days leading up to Undas, we will be focusing on the drivers because we will be coordinating with the PDEA. This is my advance announcement, so that drivers should stop doing things involving drugs—that is prohibited," Lopez.

Authorities mandate roadworthiness checks for all PUVs and verify valid licenses and franchises. The DOTr-PDEA operation, meanwhile, keeps the roads safe and protects passengers against the dangers of impaired driving.

Drivers found to be under the influence or using unregistered vehicles will immediately face suspension, license cancellation, or vehicle impoundment. Notably, for Professional Driver's License holders, the first conviction for drugged driving results in perpetual license revocation.

"All we can say is that we are ready for Oplan Undas, but aside from the preparations of the government structures, it is also important that the owners are ready. Check the tires, the brakes. The vehicle must be in good condition and you must be in good condition to drive because no matter how good our infrastructure is, the primary cause is the driver himself," he added.

Malasakit Help Desks and Security Deployments

Beyond strict enforcement, the CGDSTL units and other transport agencies are working to man the DOTr Malasakit Help Desks. The help desks function as an all-in-one assistance center in major Southern Tagalog terminals, providing real-time travel and emergency support.

To further strengthen security and emergency readiness, K9 units are conducting vessel and baggage inspections. Simultaneously, medical teams and rescue personnel position themselves in transport hubs, beaches, and coastal tourist destinations.

The government also urges the use of cashless toll transactions to ease traffic congestion and accelerate travel on major thoroughfares. The DOTr and CGDSTL assure the public of their coordination with all law enforcement units and local government to ensure a peaceful and safe observance of Undas 2025.

Passengers are urged to plan ahead, secure belongings, and use only authorized public transportation. To ensure a safe journey, the public must remain vigilant, report suspicious packages or unauthorized drivers immediately, and cooperate with authorities.

For assistance or to report incidents, approach personnel at the Malasakit Help Desks or use the hotlines listed at the terminals. They are the primary source for real-time travel information, immediate emergency services, and security reports.