The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) reported that more than 6.28 million passengers traveled through the country’s ports during the recent holiday season, the highest number in the agency’s 52-year history.
The figure covers December 15, 2025, to January 5, 2026, surpassing last year’s 4.7 million and 4.4 million in 2023. PPA attributed the surge to longer school and corporate breaks, as well as Malacañang’s declaration of December 29 and January 2 as additional non-working days, allowing more Filipinos to travel home.
PPA general manager Jay Santiago said the agency initially expected 4.6 million travelers but the extended vacation encouraged more people to return to their provinces. He added that the record traffic shows growing public confidence in the ports’ services and facilities.
To ensure safety, port authorities stepped up security screening, confiscating bladed items like knives and scissors, as well as flammable materials including lighters and gas canisters.
The busiest ports were Panay/Guimaras, followed by Batangas, Mindoro, Bohol, and Negros Oriental/Siquijor. Santiago said the PPA will continue improving port operations in preparation for future peak seasons, including Holy Week 2026.
The historic passenger numbers highlight the key role of Philippine ports in connecting communities nationwide and set a new benchmark for holiday sea travel.
