The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has intensified security measures across all its managed ports nationwide to handle the 2025 holiday surge.
According to PPA General Manager Jay Santiago there has been a deployment of more or less 3,000 security personnel in all PPA ports nationwide for heightened security measures in effect since December 15, 2025 to ensure safety, order, and the smooth flow of travelers at ports, as Filipinos traditionally return to their home provinces to celebrate Christmas and New Year.
The agency’s security forces are fully prepared, with increased vigilance at ports through close coordination with other government agencies and with the readiness of X-ray machines and K9 units working 24/7.
“They are ready, our security is on heightened alert, our security personnel are very aware of that, both our port police in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and PNP Maritime Group, as well as our force multipliers, our security guards,” Santiago said.
The PPA also reiterated the implementation of PPA Memorandum Circular No. 06-2010, or the “Prohibition on the Mandatory Sale of Passenger Insurance Coverage,” under this directive, no additional insurance fee should be charged to passengers at PPA-managed ports. All passengers are already covered by the vessel’s insurance policy in case of any incident while on board. Only the terminal fee is collected from passengers at all ports.
“There is a scammer who is even using my picture and fake ID to collect money. Reminder to the public that PPA does not charge for door-to-door shipments,” Santiago said.
Meanwhile, the PPA urged the public to cooperate with authorities by following port regulations, remaining vigilant, and promptly reporting any suspicious activities, including scammers posing as PPA officials or using the agency’s name and logo to deceive the public.
The PPA assured the public that its help desks and official social media accounts remain open to receive inquiries in line with the government’s directive to prioritize public welfare and safety, especially during the holiday rush.
“Convenience and safety of passengers are always our priority, we are all systems go, especially next week where a large crowd is expected,” Santiago said.
