MANILA, Philippines — More than 800,000 travelers arrived in and departed from the Philippines during the Holy Week season, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

In a statement late Tuesday, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reported a total of 371,092 arrivals and 432,763 departures across the country’s international gateways from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. The agency credited improved coordination with airport authorities and other government offices for the seamless flow of passengers.

At the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) alone, daily arrivals peaked at 51,000, while departures reached up to 61,000 during the holiday period.

Viado attributed the efficient airport operations to the deployment of over 40 additional immigration officers, particularly at NAIA, which helped keep all immigration counters fully manned during the travel surge.

“In line with the President’s directive and through the guidance of his Bagong Pilipinas campaign, the Bureau of Immigration remains committed to providing swift, safe, and seamless service to the traveling public,” Viado said.

The BI also cited the newly opened OFW wing at NAIA Terminal 3 as a key factor in reducing congestion. The new facility offers dedicated processing areas for overseas Filipino workers and their families, expediting their immigration procedures.

The agency said the success of this year’s Semana Santa operations reflects the “significant changes” it has implemented in its systems and staffing — all aligned with its Bagong Immigration modernization vision.