Coast Guard eyes anti-carjack measures at RORO ports

The Philippine Coast Guard is studying reviving extra anti-carjacking measures at roll-on-roll-off (RORO) terminals, to prevent carjacked or stolen vehicles from being transported around the country. Outgoing Coast Guard commandant Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo said this involves requiring Philippine National Police (PNP) clearances for vehicles boarding the ROROs. "Yan ang nawala sa sistema natin ilang taon na [ang] nakalipas. Balak natin ibalik iyan para maiwasan [ang carjacking] (It was discontinued in past years but we plan to revive it to thwart carjacking)," Tamayo said in an interview on dzBB radio. Citing reports reaching him, he said the requirement involves a clearance from the PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG) before a vehicle is allowed to board the RORO. Authorities believe carjacking gangs smuggle stolen or carjacked vehicles around the country by having them board RORO vessels. Meanwhile, Tamayo appealed to passengers to report irregularities aboard vessels as the Holy Week exodus continues to peak. He also advised motorists planning to take the RORO to show up early at the RORO ports.