The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) expects passenger numbers to surge to over a million during the election period from May 9 to May 13, 2025, with Matnog Port in Bicol among the busiest ports.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago said they are anticipating 1,155,238 travelers through the major ports nationwide during the election period.
This forecast reflects a 5 percent increase from the 1,100,227 passengers recorded during the 2022 election period. While still below pre-pandemic levels—such as the 1,745,885 passengers in 2019—the projected increase indicates a steady rebound in domestic port travel.
Santiago assured the public of the agency’s full readiness during this critical travel window.
“We are implementing full manning of personnel from port operations and port security units handling frontline services. We are also strengthening coordination with the Coast Guard, law enforcement, and shipping lines to ensure our ports remain safe, secure, and passenger-friendly,” he said.
The busiest ports are Panay/Guimaras, Batangas, Bicol, Mindoro, and Bohol.
At the Port of Matnog in Sorsogon, the PPA Port Management Office (PMO) in Bicol has already recorded a notable increase in passenger traffic ahead of the election period.
Hence, as early as May 2, 2025, PMO Bicol already sent a letter of request to MARINA for additional ships due to influx of passengers this election period. On regular days, the port averages around 2,000 passengers daily, but from May 3 to 5, 2025, the port has already recorded an even higher average of over 8,500 passengers per day.
According to PPA-PMO Bicol, election seasons consistently mark the highest volume of both passengers and rolling cargoes, prompting the enhanced deployment of personnel and the implementation of stricter traffic and crowd management measures to ensure smooth and orderly port operations. In addition to operational readiness, GM Santiago reminded the public to stay alert against scammers and unauthorized charges.
This follows an incident last year, where a passenger at Manila North Port reported being scammed into paying ₱500 for supposed travel insurance for a child.
GM Santiago emphasized that travelers are automatically covered by a common carrier insurance upon purchase of a boat ticket, and that no separate insurance fee should ever be collected.
“Let me reiterate once you buy your ticket, you’re already insured by the shipping line. There is no need to pay for additional insurance. If someone asks you for payment beyond official charges, please report it immediately to port authorities,” Santiago emphasized.
PPA personnel and security forces will be on full alert during the election period, with Malasakit Help Desk, medical teams, and sanitation crews strategically deployed to ensure safe and comfortable travel for the riding public.
Passengers are encouraged to plan their travel early, stay informed through PPA’s official social media account, and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately.
