In line with its mandate in ensuring passenger safety and security, the Terminal Management Office of Camiguin under PMO Misamis Oriental/Cagayan de Oro in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection, conducted a fire drill for the second semester at the Port of Benoni on 15 November 2022. Participants of the activity consisted of personnel from the TMO and other agencies, namely the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippine National Police – Mahinog Chapter (PNP), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (MDRRMC), Asian Marine Transport Corporation (AMTC), Philstone Shipping Company (PSC), and Balbagon Arrastre Stevedoring and Port Services (BASPS).
The first half of the activity held inside the Passenger Terminal Building, was a lecture on the importance of conducting the drill, components that create a fire, and techniques in preventing or eliminating fire incidents. Facilitators from the Bureau of Fire Protection were able to present an overview of the safety procedures, particularly for workplace accidents. The discussion then proceeded to the actual demonstration of the protocols and evacuation plan held at the south wing or ramp side of the port. Centered on Bayanihan, the participants learned during the conduct of the drill that cooperation and communal unity play an important role in these situations.
The PMO and all ports under its jurisdiction continue to improve the quality of its services and deliver its mandates through the conduct of these drills and exercises.-BCAcedera