Long queues have started to form along the coastal roads near the Maharlika Highway leading to the Matnog Port on December 26, 2023.

There will be no cancellation of voyages heading to Visayas despite the strong sea current delaying ferry trips.

The Philippine Ports Authority reported that from December 15 to 25, 2023, a total of 52,170 passengers and 10,000 vehicles arrived at the port and anchorage areas, especially toward the Samar area.

"Naging maayos at ligtas naman ang ating naging pag-agapay sa ating mga kababayan habang sila ay nandito sa pantalan, at yun nga sa kabutihang palad ay wala naman tayong naitalang mga untoward incidents," Achilles Galindes, Division Manager of PPA - Port of Matnog, said.

The PPA is optimistic about the continued surge in passenger traffic as the New Year approaches. 

The office remains on heightened alert, collaborating with various agencies to maintain the security and convenience of travelers in the port area.

"Tayo ay nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga katuwang natin dahil sa maigi [at] mabuting partnership na naipatupad natin para mabigyan ng maayos at konbinienteg pagbiyahe ang ating mga kababayan," Galindes added.