The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it monitored about 181,000 passengers passing through seaports nationwide in the run-up to New Year’s Eve.
In an advisory, the PCG reported that 97,697 passengers were recorded as outbound while 83,303 were inbound from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
The agency said the figures reflect increased sea travel as families and workers move ahead of the year-end celebrations.
Aside from passenger monitoring, the PCG deployed frontline personnel to ensure compliance with safety protocols at ports.
It added that 566 vessels and 896 motorbancas were inspected during the same monitoring period.
The inspections were part of efforts to prevent maritime accidents amid heavier passenger volume.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) ordered increased police visibility along major roads in anticipation of the post-holiday travel surge.
The PNP said a total of 56,785 personnel were deployed nationwide to cover highways, transport terminals, and other high-traffic areas.
Of the total, 11,129 police officers were assigned to motorist assistance hubs to provide support to travelers.
Authorities said the heightened deployment is meant to ensure safety and smooth travel as New Year celebrations draw near.