Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon led an inspection of the Port of Batangas, which has been identified as the country’s busiest passenger port this Semana Santa, according to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA). The PPA estimates that more than 1.73 million passengers will pass through ports nationwide during the Holy Week, with over 20,000 expected to transit through Batangas Port alone.
To ensure smooth and safe travel for passengers, Secretary Dizon, together with PPA General Manager Jay Santiago, toured key port facilities including the passenger entrance, ticketing booths, x-ray baggage scanners, passenger lounge, restrooms, food stalls, and boarding gates.
Dizon commended the significant improvements made at the port, highlighting efforts to decongest the area and eliminate illegal activities such as unauthorized fixers.
“Before, the road leading to the terminal was crowded, and fixers were common. Now, it’s spacious, organized, and secure,” said Secretary Dizon. “Passengers can go straight from the street to the terminal through a covered walkway, with trolleys available for heavy luggage, and shuttles provided for seniors and PWDs. Inside the terminal, it feels like a mall—clean, efficient, and comfortable.”
Batangas Port tops the list of high-traffic ports this Holy Week, followed by the Port Management Offices (PMOs) in Mindoro, Panay/Guimaras, Negros Oriental/Siquijor, and Bohol. Passenger volume is expected to peak starting Tuesday, April 14, as people head to their provinces for the holiday.
Anti-Overloading Measures Strengthened
In a bid to enhance passenger safety, Secretary Dizon announced a new Joint Memorandum Circular between the DOTr, PPA, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). The circular enforces stricter regulations against vessel overloading—a common and dangerous issue during peak travel seasons.
“The safety of our travelers is our top priority. Overloading is one of the biggest threats, and we will not tolerate it,” Dizon emphasized. “Those who violate these rules will face serious consequences, including heavy fines, suspension, and even license revocation.”
E-Ticketing System to Launch This Year
Secretary Dizon also praised the PPA’s move to implement an Electronic Ticketing System within the year, a project aimed at eliminating long queues, curbing ticket scalping, and ensuring that ticket sales do not exceed a vessel’s capacity.
“This system will be a game-changer for port passengers. It will not only make ticketing more convenient but will also eliminate fixers and prevent overloading. We’re looking at rolling this out within the year,” he said.
Continued Readiness Checks Nationwide
The PPA, under GM Santiago’s leadership, has ramped up coordination with government agencies and shipping lines to streamline operations at ports. This includes frequent coordination meetings with PMOs and regular inspection visits.
This visit to Batangas Port follows earlier inspections by Secretary Dizon and GM Santiago across key ports in Visayas and Mindanao, as part of a broader initiative to ensure safe, efficient, and comfortable travel experiences for all Filipino passengers during the Holy Week rush.
