PPA: Ports ready for 2.2M expected passengers during Undas season

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said the agency is ready for the around 2.2 million passengers that are expected to troop to ports during the Undas season from October 27 to November 5.

On Monday morning, Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez and PPA General Manager Jay Santiago conducted an inspection at the biggest port in the country, the Batangas port.

“Layunin po ng PPA na matiyak ang ligtas, maayos, at maginhawang biyahe ng bawat pasahero ngayong Undas,” Santiago said in a statement.

(The PPA aims to ensure the safe, smooth, and comfortable travel of every passenger this Undas.)

“Ang ating mga kawani ay buong pusong nakahanda upang magbigay ng tapat at dekalidad na serbisyo sa ating mga kababayan lalo na sa panahon na mas kailangan tayo sa mga daungan,” he added.

(Our staff is wholeheartedly prepared to provide honest and quality service to our countrymen especially at a time when we are needed most at the ports.)

Personnel are fully deployed and their leaves are suspended during the Undas season, according to the PPA.

The agency also coordinated with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and PNP–Maritime Group (PNP–MG) for safety and security measures.

Malasakit Help Desk is also set up at ports.

The PPA advised the public to arrive early to avoid the influx of passengers at ports and to book trips only with legitimate ticketing outlets of shipping lines to avoid scams.

Prohibited items at ports are sharp objects, firecrackers, and flammable liquids.

In light of the recent increase in influenza-like illnesses, the PPA encouraged the public to follow the tips of the Department of Health (DOH) to avoid such diseases like washing their hands, getting enough rest, and eating nutritious food.

During the Undas season in 2024, the PPA said the highest number of passengers was reported at Iloilo Port with 218,916, followed by Jordan Port with 112,793, Batangas Port with 10,792, Calapan Port with 83,785 and BREDCO Port with 79,360. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News