Travelers heading to the provinces for the Christmas season can expect tighter security and more rigorous inspections as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) officially entered a “heightened alert” status starting Saturday, December 20.
The security escalation, ordered by PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, is set to remain in effect through January 4, 2026, to manage the massive influx of passengers expected to crowd the nation’s ports and coastal resorts during the two-week holiday stretch.
PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab confirmed that the agency is bracing for a wave of travelers beginning Friday night, noting that ports are expected to be flooded with passengers through the weekend. In a bid to prevent maritime accidents during this peak period, the PCG has issued a stern warning to vessel operators that overloaded ships will not be permitted to sail.
Cayabyab emphasized that manifest checks will be strictly enforced, and the agency will not allow any passenger on board who is not officially listed on the ship’s manifest.
To bolster safety, the PCG is collaborating with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
Travelers will see an increased presence of K-9 units, medical teams, and “Malasakit” Help Desks at major hubs, including Manila North Harbor, Batangas, Mactan, and Zamboanga. Security personnel will also be searching for prohibited items, specifically flammable materials and explosives, through intensified layered checkpoints at all entry points.
The agency’s monitoring extends beyond transport hubs to include popular vacation destinations.
Following data from previous years—which saw upwards of 5 million passengers during the holidays—the PCG will also deploy lifeguards and rescue swimmers to coastal beaches and island resorts to monitor vacationers.
This comprehensive deployment is part of a broader government effort to ensure a safe and orderly holiday season for millions of Filipino commuters.
With the added security layers likely to slow down processing times, the PCG is urging the public to take proactive measures.
Passengers are encouraged to purchase their tickets well in advance to avoid long queues at the terminals and arrive at the port several hours before their scheduled departure.
Commuters are also reminded to ensure all luggage complies with safety regulations to facilitate a smooth boarding process and avoid delays for fellow travelers.
