A surge in travelers is anticipated this Easter season, as Filipinos prepare to journey home to the provinces for religious observances and family gatherings. Both seaports and airports across the nation are bracing for significantly increased passenger volumes.
The Philippine Ports Authority projects over 2.46 million passengers will pass through ports between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday – a rise of over 2% compared to last year. Key ports like Batangas, Iloilo River Wharf, Calapan, Jordan, and Bredco are expected to experience the largest increases.
At Ninoy Aquino International Airport, officials forecast 1.35 million passengers will travel during the same week, a slight increase from the previous year’s 1.33 million. While demand remains strong, some flight suspensions and restrictions impacting Middle East routes have tempered earlier projections.
To manage the expected influx, airport authorities have deployed additional staff to critical areas including check-in counters, immigration, and security checkpoints. Passengers will also notice changes in terminal assignments, with Terminals 1 and 3 now exclusively serving international flights.
Domestic flights will operate out of Terminals 2, 4, and the future Terminal 5. Peak travel days are predicted to see nearly 158,884 passengers, with an average of 143,000 daily. Terminal 3 is expected to be the busiest, handling over 712,000 passengers.
Beyond air and sea travel, land transportation is also preparing for a massive exodus. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has ordered comprehensive roadworthiness inspections at all bus and public utility vehicle terminals nationwide.
These inspections are a crucial yearly measure to ensure the safety of travelers on the roads. Authorities anticipate a significant increase in both people and vehicles heading to the provinces for the holidays.
For those traveling the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. is providing extra support. Additional personnel and 24-hour basic mechanical services will be available at all rest and refuel stations.
To minimize disruptions, all roadworks, lane closures, and maintenance activities have been suspended throughout the Holy Week period, ensuring smoother journeys for all motorists.
