Over 1.1 million passengers are expected to troop to various ports across the country as they cast their vote for the May 12 midterm elections in their respective home provinces, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)said.

PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago assured the public of the agency’s readiness to deal with the influx of people, saying several measures are already in place to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers.

“We are implementing full manning of personnel from port operations and port security units handling frontline services. We are also strengthening coordination with the Coast Guard, law enforcement, and shipping lines to ensure our ports remain safe, secure, and passenger-friendly,” said Santiago.  

Based on the PPA estimate, around 1.15 million passengers are expected to pass through major ports nationwide, which is five percent higher compared to the 2022 election period.

While still below pre-pandemic levels, such as the 1,745,885 passengers in 2019, Santiago explained that the projected increase indicates a steady rebound in domestic port travel.

Among the expected busiest ports are the Port of Panay/Guimaras, the Port of Batangas, Port of Bicol, Port of Mindoro and Port of Bohol.

Noticeable increase

The influx of passengers are expected to start on May 9 but in the past few days, PPA spokesperson Eunice Samonte said the Port of Matnog in Sorsogon has already recorded a notable increase in passenger traffic ahead of the election period. 

On regular days, the port averages around 2,000 passengers daily but from May 3 to 5, 2025, the port has already recorded an even higher average of over 8,500 passengers per day.

“The Port Management Office Bicol already sent a letter of request to MARINA for additional ships due to the influx of passengers this election period as early as May 2,” said Samonte. 

The request was also based on the past data wherein the election season consistently marks the highest volume of both passengers and rolling cargoes.

“This prompted the enhanced deployment of personnel and the implementation of stricter traffic and crowd management measures to ensure smooth and orderly port operations,” said Samonte.

Be alert

Amid the preparations for the increased passenger traffic, Santiago also reminded the public to stay alert against scammers and unauthorized charges.  

This follows an incident last year, where a passenger at Manila North Port reported being scammed into paying ₱500 for supposed travel insurance for a child. 

Santiago emphasized that travelers are automatically covered by a common carrier insurance upon purchase of a boat ticket, and that no separate insurance fee should ever be collected.

“Let me reiterate, once you buy your ticket, you’re already insured by the shipping line. There is no need to pay for additional insurance. If someone asks you for payment beyond official charges, please report it immediately to port authorities,” said Santiago.

He said PPA personnel and security forces will be on full alert during the election period, with Malasakit Help Desk, medical teams, and sanitation crews strategically deployed to ensure safe and comfortable travel for the riding public.

Passengers are encouraged to plan their travel early, stay informed through PPA’s official social media account, and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately.