THE DAVAO City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) on Tuesday said it already coordinated with bus operators for additional trips to accommodate the anticipated increase in passengers by December 22-23.
“Hapsay ug malinawon labaw sa tanan dili sila magdutdot tungod kay naka reserve na ilang lingkuranan. So far, Wala pay nagdagdag ug bus but expecting sa 22 to 23, we are still coordinating with bus operators and Land Transportation Office (LTO) alang atong mga bus kay grabe ang pasahero but for now, okay raman (Smooth and peaceful above all no pushing of passengers because they have reserved their seats [online]. So far, we are still coordinating with bus operators and LTO for our buses because of the influx of the passengers but for now it is still good),” Aisa Usop, DCOTT head, said on Tuesday.
Moreover, Usop said they have not received any complaints against their porters who assist passengers in carrying their bags and luggage.
In fact, she urged passengers to hire porters for easy tracking of their belongings in case they go missing. Each porter wears a corresponding number on their shirt.
An officer of the day is assigned to oversee the porters and avoid overpricing.
Meanwhile, passengers are asked to follow the security protocols upon entering the terminal, particularly the removal of their jackets, caps, sun shades, and face masks to avoid long queues inside.
The DCOTT projects 1,000 to 1,500 bus trips a day to accommodate the influx of passengers this yuletide season.
“[It is] equivalent to 50,000 to 75,000 passengers during peak days,” Usop said, who again reminded those who plan to return to their respective provinces to board only at the terminal.
“It is still strictly not allowed for provincial buses to pick up passengers on the streets, “she added.
Usop admitted that there are buses that pick up passengers outside the terminal despite the ban but the official said they might face a problem once they are caught and issued a TOP.
The DCOTT opened www.bookaway.com portal where passengers can buy a ticket, reserve a seat, or check the trip schedule.
