Lack of security facilities at the Danao port makes it an easy transport point for illegal drugs to Camotes, which is allegedly a pickup point because of the island’s proximity to mainland Cebu, Bohol and Leyte.
According to Rep. Ramon “Red” Durano VI, even before it was reported that Camotes Island was a pickup point for drugs, it was already rumored to be so for several years, although these rumors were never verified.
“I’ve heard that the drug trade in Camotes was flourishing but it was not really confirmed,” Durano said in a text message sent to CDN.
According to the Albuera, Leyte police chief, Insp. Jovie Espenido, many of the suspects caught in buy-bust operations had claimed that they picked up their supplies from Camotes.
Durano himself admitted the lack of security when traveling to the island saying it is “nonexistent.”
Travelling to Camotes from mainland Cebu can be done by boarding a fast craft operated by Ocean Jet from Pier 1. The sea craft can ferry up to 180 passengers.
Another option is to take a roll on-roll off (RORO) slow boat to Camotes from the Danao port.
The Danao port, however, does not have x-ray machines or K9 dogs to check the luggage of passengers.
Durano said it would be ideal for the port authority to place an x-ray machine or a K9 unit to help detect passengers carrying contraband.
But Cebu Port Authority (CPA) general manager Edmund Tan said they still needed to procure an x-ray machine.
“We are just constrained by procurement laws that’s why it is taking quite long,” Tan said.
Presently, there are four security personnel and one port police assigned at the Danao port.
Tan said baggage inspections are conducted but not often since their primary job is to to protect and secure port facilities.
“The guards can check the baggage of passengers but on a limited scale as they are not equipped with necessary skills and equipment,” Tan added.