The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is expecting a significant rise in passenger traffic this coming All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, with an estimated 2.2 million travelers expected to pass through the country’s seaports — an increase from last year’s 1.9 million.
In an interview during an inspection at Batangas Port on Monday, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago said the surge in travelers can be attributed to Malacañang’s declaration of October 31 as a special non-working day, giving Filipinos an extended weekend to visit their loved ones.
“Layunin po ng PPA na matiyak ang ligtas, maayos, at maginhawang biyahe ng bawat pasahero ngayong Undas,” Santiago said.
Among the busiest ports under the PPA this Undas are Iloilo and Jordan Ports in Iloilo, Batangas Port, Calapan Port in Oriental Mindoro, and Bredco Port in Bacolod City.
As part of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2025”, the PPA will implement full manpower deployment across its Port Management Offices (PMO) to ensure seamless port operations throughout the holiday period.
“Suspendido rin ang lahat ng leave ng mga kawani sa nasabing panahon bilang bahagi ng mas pinaigting na paghahanda ng ahensya,” Santiago added.
To guarantee the safety and convenience of travelers, the PPA is coordinating closely with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine National Police–Maritime Group (PNP-MG).
“Nakahanda rin ang Malasakit Help Desk na bukas 24/7 sa mga pantalan upang agad na matugunan ang mga pangangailangan at katanungan ng mga pasahero,” he said.
Santiago also reminded passengers to arrive at ports early due to the expected influx of travelers and to purchase tickets only from legitimate outlets of shipping lines to avoid falling victim to scams.
With enhanced security, round-the-clock assistance desks, and full staff deployment, the PPA assured the public of safe, orderly, and comfortable maritime travel during the Undas holidays.