MANILA — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has placed its units on heightened alert and continues to intensify maritime safety operations nationwide amid the surge in holiday travelers.
The PCG said it is implementing strict inspections and monitoring under Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2025, covering major and minor ports across the country.
As of December 23, coast guard personnel have inspected 2,229 vessels and 2,000 motor bancas, while monitoring passenger traffic involving about 266,554 outbound and 233,670 inbound travelers bound for and coming from the provinces.
Authorities noted that the PCG has been on full alert since December 20, a status that will remain in effect until January 4, as passenger volume is expected to remain high throughout the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The agency reminded sea travelers to arrive early at ports, strictly follow safety regulations, wear life vests when required, and refrain from boarding vessels that are overloaded or do not have adequate safety equipment.
The PCG also urged the public to report concerns or irregularities through its official Facebook page or via the Coast Guard Public Affairs Service hotline at 0927-560-7729.