The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) today announced the highly successful and efficient turnaround call of the international cruise ship MV Costa Serena at Pier 15 of Manila South Harbor. The massive operation involved the transit of thousands of passengers, underscoring the Philippines’ readiness and capability to handle large-scale maritime tourism.
Originating from Japan, the MV Costa Serena’s arrival facilitated the safe disembarkation of approximately 2,500 passengers and the subsequent systematic boarding of an estimated 1,600 travelers. To ensure swift processing and adherence to all health and security regulations, the entire Eva Macapagal Super Terminal was designated as the official check-in area.
Robust Logistics and Inter-Agency Coordination
The efficiency of the operation was secured through tightly coordinated efforts between the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) – PMO NCR-South and essential government and private sector partners. These partners included the Department of Tourism–NCR, Bureau of Quarantine, Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Customs, and the Philippine Coast Guard. Private organizations, including Asian Terminals, Inc. (ATI) and Ben Line Shipping Agencies, were also integral to the success.
Logistics were accelerated by the deployment of 40 dedicated shuttle buses, which efficiently managed the flow of passengers between the terminal and popular city drop-off points, such as the Mall of Asia, and assisted vehicle traffic coming from the Quirino Grandstand.
PPA Port Police and ATI porters executed rigorous preparation, focusing on the safe and proper loading of thousands of pieces of luggage, while traffic flow around the pier was actively monitored to prevent disruption.
The MV Costa Serena is scheduled to depart Manila South Harbor around 11:00 PM tonight for its onward journey to Okinawa, Japan, and is expected to return to Pier 15 on October 7, 2025, confirming Manila’s established status as a preferred regional cruise hub.
