MANILA, Philippines — A total of 42,847passengers traveled through ports nationwide as the holiday rush peaks, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)  said Monday.

In its latest bulletin, the PCG said between 12AM and 6AM of December 23, the agency recorded 19,701 outbound and 23,146 inbound passengers. 

This is lower compared to the 146,862 combined inbound and outbound travelers recorded on Sunday.

To manage the surge, 2,854 personnel were deployed across 16 districts, inspecting 182 vessels and 28 motorbancas to ensure safety compliance, it said.

The PCG is now on heightened alert from December 20, 2024, to January 3, 2025, with strict monitoring and safety measures in place at major ports.

The Department of Transportation announced on Monday that approximately 7 million Filipinos are expected to travel through the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange and various seaports nationwide to celebrate the Christmas and New Year holidays with their families.

Passengers are encouraged to stay updated through the PCG’s official Facebook page or contact the Coast Guard Public Affairs Service hotline (0927-560-7729) for assistance.

The PCG reminded travelers to remain vigilant and cooperative for safe and smooth holiday journeys.