The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has announced during its year end press conference the intensified security measures across all PPA controlled and managed ports nationwide in preparation for the expected surge of passengers and cargo during the 2025 Christmas holiday rush starting December 15, 2025.
According to PPA General Manager Jay Santiago there has been a deployment of more or less 3,000 security personnel in all PPA ports nationwide for heightened security measures in effect since December 15, 2025 to ensure safety, order, and the smooth flow of travelers at ports, as Filipinos traditionally return to their home provinces to celebrate Christmas and New Year.
The agency’s security forces are fully prepared, with increased vigilance at ports through close coordination with other government agencies and with the readiness of X-ray machines and K9 units working 24/7.
“Ready na sila, our security is on a heightened alert, very aware ‘yung ating security personnel natin niyan, both ‘yung ating port police in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and PNP Maritime Group pati ‘yung force multiplier natin ‘yung mga security guards natin ano,” GM Santiago said.
The PPA also reiterated the implementation of PPA Memorandum Circular No. 06-2010, or the “Prohibition on the Mandatory Sale of Passenger Insurance Coverage,” under this directive, no additional insurance fee should be charged to passengers at PPA-managed ports. All passengers are already covered by the vessel’s insurance policy in case of any incident while on board. Only the terminal fee is collected from passengers at all ports.
“Mayroong scammer na gumagamit pa ng picture ko at pekeng ID para makapaningil. Paalala po sa publiko na hindi po naniningil ang PPA sa mga door-to-door na kargamento,” GM Santiago emphasized.
Meanwhile, the PPA urged the public to cooperate with authorities by following port regulations, remaining vigilant, and promptly reporting any suspicious activities, including scammers posing as PPA officials or using the agency’s name and logo to deceive the public.
The PPA assured the public that its help desks and official social media accounts remain open to receive inquiries in line with the government’s directive to prioritize public welfare and safety, especially during the holiday rush.
“Convenience at safety po ng mga pasahero ang lagi nating inuuna, all systems go na po tayo especially next week kung saan inaasahan ang dagsa ng mga tao,” GM Santiago concluded.
