The Philippine Ports Authority on Thursday advised vacationers to expect long queues at the ports during the upcoming long holiday weekend, as the number of vessels servicing passengers remains low.

PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago said the agency expects 1.4 million passengers to flock to various ports in the country starting today, 27 October, until 5 November to participate in the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections and to observe All Saints' and All Souls' days in their provinces.

Santiago said the lack of vessels is the main reason for the expected passenger congestion. He called on the Marina Industry Authority, or Marina, to relax the scheduling of vessels at Matnog Port, Batangas Port and Calapan Port to help address the situation.

Santiago also reminded passengers not to pay additional charges, such as travel insurance, to unscrupulous individuals outside the ports. He said the travel insurance for passengers is included in the standard carrier insurance that is paid for by shipping companies.

In a separate statement, Marina said it has relaxed the authorized schedule of trips for shipping operators within its jurisdiction in anticipation of the surge in passengers and cargo during the long holiday weekend.

The easing of schedules aims to ensure the safe, reliable, and convenient transportation of passengers and rolling cargo while accommodating the heightened demand. 

This is guided by the conditions outlined in Marina Advisory No. 2015-10, which provides "Guidelines during Emergency, Holiday Season and Special Occasion."