More than 4.7 million vessel passengers utilized ports to visit their hometowns during the holiday season, the Philippine Ports Authority reported on Tuesday.

Based on PPA records, a total of 4,743,931 passengers flocked to PPA-run ports nationwide from 15 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, the highest number of passengers recorded during the holidays since the pandemic.

The PPA said the surge in passenger numbers during the 2024 holiday season can be attributed to several key factors, including the improving Philippine economy, allowing more Filipinos to travel and spend time with family and loved ones.

As the country emerges from previous economic challenges and typhoons, increased disposable income and greater mobility have led to more travelers, particularly during the holiday season.

Preferred transportation mode

Additionally, sea travel continues to be the preferred mode of transportation for many Filipinos due to its affordability, accessibility, and the extensive network of domestic routes connecting the country’s islands.

Sea travel offers a practical solution for those visiting provinces, especially during peak periods like Christmas and New Year when demand for transportation is at its highest.

A significant driver of this increase has also been the PPA’s ongoing campaign, “PPAsyal Tayo.”

Launched as part of the PPA’s efforts to boost tourism and ease travel congestion during the holiday season, the “PPAsyal Tayo” campaign aims to encourage safe, efficient and enjoyable travel through ports.

The initiative has been widely embraced by passengers, as it focuses on improving passenger services, streamlining port operations, and raising awareness about the benefits of traveling through the country’s seaports.

Successful period for sea travel

“This year’s holiday season has been another successful period for Philippine sea travel, with more passengers choosing to travel through our ports. We are pleased to see an increase in passenger numbers compared to last year, a sign that maritime transport continues to play a vital role in connecting families and communities across the country,” said PPA general manager Jay Santiago.

To ensure the smooth flow of passengers, the PPA has implemented a series of measures including "No leave policy" for complete duty personnel at ports, enhanced security protocols, additional staff deployment, and optimized operations at key ports across the country.

The PPA also remains dedicated to continually enhancing port infrastructure and services, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for all passengers throughout the year.

Overall, the situation has been peaceful, with no reported crimes except for the confiscation of prohibited items at the port, such as knives, fireworks, and other flammable materials.

As the holiday season ends, the PPA is already preparing to manage post-holiday travel efficiently, ensuring that passenger traffic remains smooth and organized in the coming weeks.