State-run Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) advised passengers to prepare for high port traffic this weekend, following the extended Christmas and New Year holiday weekend.
PPA said some 674,000 travelers are expected to return to ports from Jan. 3 to 5.
The total passenger traffic at the ports reached more than 3.6 million from Dec. 15, 2024 until Jan. 2, 2025. The PPA said it might further increase as more passengers return after the holiday break.
PPA general manager Jay Santiago said, however, the ports are ready for the influx of returning passengers and continue to implement strict public safety security.
He called on passengers to book flights early to avoid long queues at the ticketing booth of the shipping lines.
Santiago said security remains on heightened alert at all ports managed by the PPA throughout the country with about 3,000 security forces and force multipliers patrolling the ports.
There are also Malasakit helpdesks that provide immediate assistance to passengers in need, patrolling K-9 units, and 24/7 CCTV monitoring.
Meanwhile, despite the reminder to passengers not to carry prohibited devices, sharp tools and flammable materials such as knives, card knives, lighters and matches were still confiscated at the ports.
