MARINA issues relaxation order to ease port congestion on Holy Week 2025

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) on Thursday issued a relaxation order across its regional offices to ease port congestion nationwide for the upcoming Holy Week.

In a Facebook post, MARINA said the order allows flexibility in sailing schedules, trip frequencies, and other operational adjustments.

The order will take effect during the Holy Week, according to MARINA.

It will apply to shipping operators with valid Certificates of Public Convenience, Provisional Authority, or Special Permit, who are operating on affected routes.

“This proactive measure is meant to reduce delays, ease port congestion, and ensure that our passengers can reach their destinations safely and on time,” said MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan.

To manage the volume of passengers and cargo, the order enables operators to depart when the maximum passenger or cargo capacity is met, even before the scheduled departure time.

A “First-Come, First-Serve” policy will also be enforced to ensure fair service despite high demand.

Other qualified operators may be authorized to deploy additional vessels should there be insufficient service.

“Any changes to sailing schedules are subject to MARINA’s confirmation and may be modified or canceled if needed,” MARINA said.

“To avoid port bottlenecks, affected ships are also directed to observe a reasonable “Port Time Stay,” ensuring smooth berthing operations,” it added.

This year, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday will be observed on April 17 and 18 as declared regular holidays.

Meanwhile, Black Saturday on April 19 was declared a special non-working holiday. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News