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The Philippine Ports Authority posted a record-breaking 4,743,931 passengers in its ports nationwide during the Dec. 15, 2024 to Jan. 5, 2025 holiday period
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The total is the highest number recorded during the holidays since the pandemic
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PPA attributed the rise to several factors, such as the country’s improving economy that allowed more Filipinos to travel
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) posted a record-breaking 4,743,931 passengers in its ports nationwide during the Dec. 15, 2024 to Jan. 5, 2025 holiday period.
The total is the highest number recorded during the holidays since the pandemic, with a notable rise compared to the 2023 holiday season’s 4,366,933 passengers, the agency said in a statement.
The PPA attributed the rise to several factors, such as the country’s improving economy that allowed more Filipinos to travel. Increased disposable income and greater mobility led to more travelers, notably during the holiday season.
Sea travel remains the preferred mode of transportation for most Filipinos due to its affordability, accessibility and the extensive network of local routes connecting the country’s islands.
Jay Santiago, PPA general manager, said he was pleased to see an increase in passenger numbers compared to 2023, “a sign that maritime transport continues to play a vital role in connecting families and communities across the country.”
A significant driver in the increase has been the PPA’s ongoing ‘PPAsyal Tayo’ campaign, launched as part of the Authority’s efforts to boost tourism and ease travel congestion.
The campaign aims to encourage safe, efficient, and enjoyable travel through ports.
To guarantee the smooth flow of passengers, the PPA implemented a series of measures such as its “No leave policy” for complete duty personnel at ports, enhanced security protocols, additional staff deployment, and optimized operations at key ports.
For the recently concluded holiday season, the overall situation has been peaceful. There were no reported crimes except for the confiscation of prohibited items such as knives, fireworks, and other flammable materials.
The PPA said it is now preparing to manage post-holiday travel efficiently, ensuring that passenger traffic remains smooth and organized in the coming weeks.
