Fixers caught collecting ‘illegal’ boarding fees in Batangas Port

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

Authorities warned that the high influx of rolling cargoes and passengers at Batangas Port Terminal this Christmas season has created opportunities for illicit activities. (File Photo: Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog/Facebook)

MANILA – Two individuals engaged in “fixing” activities were apprehended at the Batangas Port Terminal on Dec. 23, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said following reports of extortion incidents outside the terminal premises.

The Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog said the suspects were caught in the act of offering motorists and passengers illegal speedy vehicle boarding services for fees.

Personnel from Coast Guard Station (CGS) Batangas, the Coast Guard Intelligence Unit of Southern Tagalog (CGIU-STL), and the Philippine National Police–Maritime Group (PNP-MARIG) Batangas City were mobilized in response, arriving at the site at around 9 p.m.

Pieces of evidence, including mobile phones, marked money, and boodle money, were seized for further investigation, and the suspects were transferred to PNP-MARIG custody.

Authorities are now examining the possibility of additional accomplices involved in the scheme.

One of the victims, a motorcycle rider, shared that he was approached by the suspects along Diversion Road while traveling from Sto. Tomas, Batangas, to his home in San Juan, Victoria, Mindoro.

The suspects offered to expedite his boarding process for a fee of PHP1,000, payable only after successfully boarding the vessel.

The said rider also revealed that two of his companions were approached with similar offers. However, the transaction was not completed as authorities intervened promptly.

The suspects are facing charges under Article 318 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC) for other deceit.

Passengers and motorists, meanwhile, are urged to report any suspicious activities to port authorities and avoid engaging with unauthorized individuals.

“These activities, which often involve promises of expedited vehicle boarding services in exchange for monetary payments, are illegal and unregulated,” the PCG said in an advisory on Christmas Eve.

Authorities warned that the high influx of rolling cargoes and passengers at Batangas Port Terminal this Christmas season has created opportunities for illicit activities.

“The PCG and PNP reiterate their commitment to safeguarding the traveling public and ensuring lawful operations at the nation’s ports, particularly during the busy holiday season,” the PCG added.

Check official social media

Meanwhile, Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado advised the public to check the official social media platforms of the bureau for real-time passenger volume updates during the holiday season.

Viado said sharing such updates will inform the traveling public about the situations at the airports, for timely updates and further announcements.

“We are committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience for all passengers,” Viado said in a news release.

“By sharing updates on passenger volume, we hope to help travelers plan their airport arrivals and avoid unnecessary delays,” he added.

The BI’s passenger volume updates, posted on their official page Facebook.com/officialbureauofimmigration, aim to provide real-time insights into airport activity. This initiative allows passengers to anticipate potential crowding and adjust their schedules accordingly.

Viado also urged travelers to check in at least three hours before their flights and proceed directly to immigration clearance to minimize congestion.

“The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year, and preparation is key,” he said. “Checking in early and heading straight to immigration counters can make a significant difference in reducing stress and ensuring a more relaxed journey.”

As of today, BI reports that operations have been running smoothly, with no major incidents reported.

Additional immigration counters, mobile units, and a rapid response team have also been mobilized to accommodate the surge in travelers. (with reports from Ferdinand Patinio/PNA)