MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) monitored a total of 136,581 passengers in ports across the country on April 13, marking the start of the Holy Week travel surge.

Between 12 noon and 6 p.m., 71,682 outbound and 64,899 inbound passengers were recorded in all ports nationwide. To manage the influx of travelers, 4,063 frontline personnel across 16 PCG districts were deployed to inspect 554 vessels and 1,027 motorbancas.

The PCG has placed all its districts, stations, and sub-stations on heightened alert from April 13 to 20 as part of Oplan Biyaheng Ayos 2025, an initiative to ensure safe and orderly travel during the Lenten season and summer vacation.

In Southern Tagalog, the Coast Guard District raised its alert status and intensified round-the-clock security operations in major ports and ferry terminals. 

Personnel are conducting passenger assistance, safety checks, baggage inspections, and vessel pre-departure inspections in coordination with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and other stakeholders.

The PCG said it will continue to enforce safety measures to prevent vessel overloading and respond to maritime emergencies. Search and Rescue (SAR) units, medical teams, K9 units, Deployable Response Groups, and Coast Guard Auxiliary members have been deployed to high-traffic areas to provide immediate support.

Malasakit Help Desks have also been activated in key ports to address passenger concerns, offer information, and assist during emergencies.

Travelers are advised to arrive early at terminals, avoid bringing prohibited items, follow safety protocols, and report any suspicious activity to the Coast Guard. For concerns and inquiries, the public may reach the PCG through its official Facebook page or contact the Coast Guard Public Affairs Service at 0927-560-7729.