'Business as Usual' for Manila Port During Papal Visit
Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) says that the country's major seaports, except the Manila South Harbor, will remain open during Pope Francis' visit to the country from January 15 to 19. PPA general manager Juan Sta. Ana said it is ābusiness as usualā for the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), North Port, Harbour Centre Port Terminals Inc., and the Tacloban baseport. The clarifications come after reports in the local media that the Manila Port will be closed prompting PPA to suspend operations. However, PPA said in a statement it had advised stakeholders to take additional measures to reduce the commercial impact of the slowdown in operations to give way to the security measures being put in place for the Popeās safety.
Philippine Coast Guard Boosts Security
With some 12 million devotees from different walks of life to join the procession, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and various law enforcement agencies will deploy its security personnel and assets for the upcoming Feast of the Black Nazarene on Thursday, January 9, 2014. PCG Commandant Rear Admiral Rodolfo D. Isorena directed the dispatch of PCG personnel and assets in different points within the route of said procession. Nine CGK9 dogs with handlers will be deployed at vicinity Quirino Grandstand in Luneta Park, three PCG craft will be placed on standby at the back of the Quirino grandstand to serve as platform in case of emergency evacuation together with four rubber boats manned by SOGā¦
