Transport agencies gear up for 8M travelers during Undas 2025 weekend
Transport acting secretary Giovanni Lopez (with cap) and Philippine Ports Authority general manager Jay Santiago behind him at the Batangas Port on October 27, 2025. Photo from Department of Transportation
  • The Department of Transportation placed all major transport hubs on heightened alert for Undas 2025
  • Eight million travelers are expected to use air and sea transport from October 27 to November 5 
  • The Philippine Ports Authority projects 2.2 million sea passengers nationwide, up from 1.9 million in 2024
  • On the air side, a 7-10% increase to 5.8 million air passengers is expected by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines
  • Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2025 covers Oct. 30-Nov. 4, aligned with Proclamation No. 727, declaring October 31 a special non-working holiday
  • Full manpower deployment and suspension of staff leave are in effect for PPA-managed ports
  • Help desks are operational 24/7 at airports and seaports to assist passengers
  • CAAP is coordinating with other government agencies and airlines to ensure smooth airport operations

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) placed all major transport hubs on heightened alert in anticipation of an estimated eight million travelers during the Undas 2025 long weekend starting October 31.

DOTr acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) general manager Jay Santiago conducted an early inspection of the Batangas Port, the country’s largest passenger terminal, on October 27 to ensure the readiness of port facilities, personnel, and operations for the expected influx of passengers.

The inspection is part of the DOTr’s “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2025”, a coordinated effort across all transport sectors from October 30 to November 4, 2025, following Proclamation No. 727, which declared October 31, 2025, as a special non-working day, creating a long weekend for Filipinos returning to their provinces to observe All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

Passenger volume across PPA-managed ports is projected to reach 2.2 million nationwide during the Undas period, up from 1.9 million recorded in 2024.

Last year, the Iloilo Port handled the highest number of passengers with 218,916, followed by Jordan Port (112,793), Batangas Port (110,792), Calapan Port (83,785), and BREDCO Port (79,360).

READ: Fewer seaport passengers recorded during All Saints’ Day weekend —  PPA

“The PPA aims to ensure the safe, orderly, and convenient travel of all passengers this Undas. Our personnel are fully prepared to provide honest and quality service, especially during this period when our presence at the ports is most needed,” Santiago said.

PPA has implemented full manpower deployment across all Port Management Offices, with all employee leaves suspended during the period to maintain continuous operations. The agency has also strengthened coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Police-Maritime Group to ensure passenger safety and efficient port flow.

Malasakit Help Desks are operational 24/7 in ports to provide assistance to travelers. Passengers are also advised to arrive early, transact only with legitimate ticketing outlets, and avoid bringing prohibited items such as sharp objects, firecrackers, and flammable liquids to prevent delays during inspections.

Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) raised its alert level at all airports in support of DOTr’s directive. The move aims to ensure passenger safety, smooth airport operations, and quick response to emergencies as air travel activity rises during the holiday.

“We have directed all Area Managers to prepare for and strictly implement the necessary safety and security measures during the expected passenger surge this Undas to ensure smooth operations and passenger convenience,” said CAAP director general Raul Del Rosario.

CAAP anticipates at least 5.8 million air travelers during the long weekend, a 7-10% increase from last year’s 4.8 million. Security and medical staff will stay on high alert, with Malasakit Help Desks also set up at all airports.

The agency is closely coordinating with the Police-Aviation Security Unit, Office for Transportation Security, Department of Tourism, Civil Aeronautics Board, and airlines to ensure efficient processing of passengers at check-in counters and terminals.

READ: Gilbert Cruz is new transportation security chief

CAAP also reminded travelers that being prepared, staying aware, and following safety protocols are essential for a safe and smooth trip during the busy travel season.

PPA and CAAP are both attached agencies of DOTr.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like