January 3 Marks Start of Post-Holiday Travel Rush

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) are preparing for a significant rise in travelers as people return to urban areas after the holidays, expected to start on January 3. According to PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, nearly six million passengers are anticipated at ports nationwide, up from last year's five million. Monitoring of passenger traffic began on December 20 and will continue until January 4.

Cayabyab noted that approximately 500,000 to 750,000 passengers are expected to pass through ports over the weekend. From midnight to 6 a.m. on Friday, 14,282 outbound and 12,408 inbound passengers were recorded, alongside 119 vessels and 42 motorbancas inspected by 16 Coast Guard districts. While no stranded passengers have been reported, the PCG is ready to provide free rides if commercial vessel shortages occur.

Strict enforcement of passenger limits on vessels is emphasized to guarantee safety. Captains must ensure adherence to capacity rules, and trips may be canceled based on weather warnings from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration. Currently, no weather disturbances are causing cancellations, though smaller vessels are advised to remain docked due to high waves on the northern seaboard.

The LTFRB has increased its inspections to ensure the safety and readiness of public transport as millions return to cities. Chairperson Vigor D. Mendoza II stated that vehicle roadworthiness will be checked through random inspections in collaboration with other agencies. With at least two fatal road accidents reported during the holidays, the agency is aiming to eliminate road crashes as traffic increases.

Related efforts by the Philippine National Police (PNP) include placing officers at key transport hubs and deploying the Highway Patrol Group on major highways. Acting PNP Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. highlighted increased visibility and coordination with local government units for traffic management. The public is urged to plan travels carefully, remain patient, and ensure vehicle readiness to prevent incidents and road rage, reported Manila Bulletin.

Key Takeaways

• Nearly six million post-holiday travelers are expected in the Philippines.

• Strict adherence to capacity limits on vessels is being enforced for safety.

• Increased inspections and police presence aim to ensure travel safety.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2026-01-02