DOLE inspects Samar passenger boats ahead of Undas rush

TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) inspected passenger boats operating between Catbalogan City and nearby island communities on Thursday, 29 October, ahead of the expected surge in travelers during the Undas holiday.

DOLE-Samar chief labor and employment officer Aleksei Ceasar Abellar said the High Impact High Visibility (HIHV) inspection at Pier Uno in Catbalogan City aimed to ensure safe working conditions for maritime workers and protect passengers traveling for All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

Conducted in coordination with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the inspection focused on compliance with general labor standards and occupational safety and health regulations, particularly those covering working conditions, compensation and employee welfare.

Abellar said authorities also sought to prevent excessive workloads and prolonged working hours that could compromise the health and safety of maritime personnel as passenger traffic increases.

The Catbalogan port operates multiple daily trips to the island towns of Daram and Zumarraga, as well as smaller island barangays. It also offers scheduled fast-craft services to Cebu and Biliran.

Inspectors checked passenger manifests, vessel documents, seaworthiness and the availability of emergency equipment, including life rafts, life jackets and other flotation devices.

The inspection also covered compliance with authorized passenger and cargo capacities to prevent overloading and ensure the safety of travelers.

DOLE said the initiative forms part of efforts to protect maritime workers and maintain safe transport operations during the holiday rush.