The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is mulling to purchase new equipment to boost inspection capabilities on cargoes particularly those in container vans that go through the Tagbilaran City pier.

According to Engr. James Gantalao, PPA-Tagbilaran manager, they are currently unable to conduct cargo scanning and detect contraband in large shipping containers.

The PPA official noted that port personnel are not allowed to open and physically inspect container vans as stipulated in a currently imposed policy.

“We can’t just open container vans at will especially the arriving ones,” said Gantalao in Cebuano.

Gantalao on Wednesday also admitted that they lack several other equipment and they intend to purchase these as cargo traffic at the port continues to increase.

Still, port authorities are coming up with other measures to enhance inspection on all cargoes and vehicles that pass through the province’s busiest port.

The PPA in Tagbilaran City so far possesses only one x-ray machine and this used only for passengers’ personal baggage.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) earlier today met with Bohol PPA officials to inspect local piers’ adherence to Republic Act 7277 or Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.

The DOTr personnel conducted an evaluation on seaports’ compliance in terms of facilities including ramps for persons with disabilities and senior citizens.

Gantalo said that local port authorities are already moving to meet the DOTr’s requirements.

“All should comply as it is part of the law. We are still at 50 percent compliance with that as after the earthquake, construction of facilities was hastened,” he added. (AD)