The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recorded 75,261 outbound and 82,528 inbound passengers at all ports nationwide the weekend before Christmas or around 157,789 people in total.
The PCG said that they have deployed 2,902 frontline personnel in 16 Coast Guard Districts to support the influx of sea-going travelers. They were able to also inspect 606 vessels and 609 motor bancas on major ports in the country.
Between 12 midnight to 6:00 a.m. on Sunday alone, December 22, the PCG said it has monitored 20,470 outbound passengers and 18,516 inbound travelers in all ports.
The Batangas Port reported a significant influx of passengers and vehicles, according to the PCG Southern Tagalog District.
“The terminal is currently experiencing a high volume of travelers and vehicles, reflecting the expected surge as people head to various destinations for the Christmas holiday,” PCG Southern Tagalog said in a Facebook post.
The PCG placed its districts, stations and substations on heightened alert from December 20, 2024 to January 3, 2025. This is to enable their personnel to meet the security needs of departing and returning travelers during the holiday season.
For any travel concerns, the public is advised to coordinate with the PCG through its official Facebook page or contact the Coast Guard Public Affairs Service (0927-560-7729), especially those related to travel protocols and regulations.
