PPA issues reminders for fur parents, plantitas for Holy Week 2026 travel

Thinking of bringing your fur pet or plant companion on a sea trip for the Holy Week? Before setting sail, read the government's reminders for fur parents, plantitos, and plantitas.

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) on Saturday issued separate advisories regarding the sea transport of pets and plants during the Holy Week 2026 exodus.

Pet and plant owners need to secure corresponding permits for their beloved companions, the PPA said.

For fur-parents, passengers with pets were asked to coordinate with their local Bureau of Animal Industry - National Veterinary Quarantine Services office or to register at https://nvqsd.bai.gov.ph/#feature to secure a seven-day shipping permit.

A veterinary health certificate, which can be issued by the pet's veterinarian, is also among the requirements for sea transport. This will provide details on the pet's vaccination history, including the validity of their protection.

"Sa ganitong paraan, ligtas at maayos na makakasama ninyo ang inyong mga fur babies sa barko at pantalan," the PPA said.

(Through this, you may be accompanied by your fur babies on board sea vessels and at seaports in a safe and orderly manner.)

As for those bringing plants, passengers were told to seek a shipping permit with their local Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) office https://npqsd.bpi-npqsd.com.ph/domestic/

The PPA said the BPI's National Plant Quarantine Services Division (NPQSD) can issue a Clearance for Domestic Transport (CDT), which ensures that that plants planned for transport do not have regulated non-quarantine pests.

The transport of plants under the genus Musa, such as bananas and abaca, is limited because this may carry diseases, the PPA added.

A plant quarantine officer, upon inspection, may order phytosanitary measures before allowing the plants to be brought for travel.

Meanwhile, the PPA reminded that possession of illegal and dangerous substances—such as flammable items, deadly weapons, and liquor—are prohibited inside ports and piers.

The public was encouraged to follow rules to avoid any hitches during Holy Week travel. — VDV, GMA Integrated News