Bong Go urges caution amid Holy Week travel surge

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go urged Filipinos to exercise caution as millions travel home during the Holy Week break, with transport terminals across the country experiencing heavy passenger traffic.

“Alam nating panahon ito ng pagninilay at pagsasama ng pamilya, kaya natural lang na marami sa atin ang uuwi sa probinsya. Ang mahalaga po, maging maingat tayo sa biyahe. Bantayan ang mga gamit, sumunod sa mga patakaran, at ‘wag magmadali,” Go said.

(“We know this is a time for reflection and being with family, so it’s only natural that many of us will head home to the provinces. What’s important is to travel safely — watch over your belongings, follow the rules, and don’t rush.”)

Transportation officials have reported a significant rise in travel volume. The Department of Transportation noted that Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is handling around 150,000 travelers daily throughout the Holy Week. Airlines including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia have added flight frequencies to meet the seasonal demand.

Land travel has also intensified. The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) is seeing a surge of up to 2.5 million passengers this week. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) deployed additional bus units and issued special permits to manage the influx.

At sea, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) expects more than 1.7 million passengers nationwide. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed over 17,000 personnel and activated Help Desks to maintain safety and order.

Go emphasized the importance of public cooperation in maintaining peace and safety during the Lenten season. “May mga ahensya naman tayong nakaantabay para tumulong, pero nasa atin din ang disiplina,” he said.

(“We have agencies on standby to assist, but discipline is still up to us.”)

As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also reminded the public to take precautions against heat-related illnesses and health risks associated with long travel. “Mainit po ang panahon, kaya uminom ng maraming tubig at magpahinga kapag napapagod. Kung may nararamdamang kakaiba, ‘wag pong ipagwalang-bahala.”

(“The weather is hot, so drink plenty of water and rest when you’re tired. If you feel anything unusual, don’t ignore it.”)

“Unahin palagi ang kalusugan at kaligtasan. Tandaan na ang kalusugan ay katumbas ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” he added.

(“Always prioritize health and safety. Remember that health is equivalent to the life of every Filipino.”)

Go concluded with a message of reflection for the Holy Week. “Ang Semana Santa ay panahon ng pagninilay at pag-asa. Gamitin natin ito para makapagpahinga, makasama ang mahal sa buhay, at higit sa lahat, magdasal at magpasalamat.”

(“Holy Week is a time for reflection and hope. Let us use this time to rest, be with our loved ones, and most of all, to pray and give thanks.”)