The Philippine Ports Authority on Monday belied social media claims that some trips to the provinces were canceled in the last two days of 2023.

PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago said in a radio interview that reports of four vessels not able to leave port were not true.

"We deny those reports. In fact, some trips were even early as instead of sailing on 2 January, they were allowed to leave on 30 and 31 December," Santiago said.

The Manila North Harbor, Batangas and Calapan ports were crowded on Sunday because, anticipating an influx of travelers, passengers descended on the ports days ahead of their scheduled voyages.

"So they came in earlier. We, however, made sure they had good spots at the terminals while waiting for their trips," the PPA chief said.

Santiago urged the passengers to be aware of the Passenger Bill of Rights, issued by the Maritime Industry Authority, on canceled, delayed or uncompleted voyages.

Marina emphasized that all passengers of a canceled or delayed trip have the right to information, to a refund or revalidation of their ticket, to amenities, and to compensation.

Santiago said the PPA is bracing for the influx of passengers coming back from provinces, which may reach 5.1 million by 15 January.