BATANGAS CITY – Secretary Vince Dizon of the Department of Transportation inspected the Batangas International Port here on Thursday afternoon, April 10, a week ahead of the Holy Week rush to the provinces.

DIZON (right) inspecting the Batangas International Port in Batangas City on April 10. (DOTr FB)
His inspection was in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure safe, secure, and convenient travel for the public in airports, seaports, and railways nationwide during the solemn occasion.
Dizon said that the Batangas port is the largest maritime hub in Luzon with a passenger capacity of over 8,000.
He highlighted the strong partnership between the private sector and maritime authorities Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI), the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)—that led to smoother and more efficient operations.
He noted significant improvements in the port’s facilities over the years, including enhancements that cater to senior citizens and Persons with Disabilities.
The DOTr chief said they remain committed to modernizing transport hubs across the country to provide a safer, more convenient, and inclusive travel experience to all Filipinos.
Dizon cited the growing importance of Batangas Port.
“What we’re seeing in Batangas is promising. This is already the largest, and it still needs to expand. We are opening new shipping routes from Batangas to Palawan, and to various destinations in the Visayas and Mindanao.”
Dizon said that a joint memorandum circular was signed last April 8 between the PPA, PCG, DOTr, and Maritime Industry Authority against overloading of vessels.
He said that the PCG must strictly enforce passenger and vehicle limits based on vessel capacity.
Violators will face serious consequences from Marina, including heavy fines and suspension or revocation of certificates and licenses.
Dizon called on shipping lines to take this matter seriously and not compromise passenger safety.
The implementation of e-ticketing, approved by the PPA, aims to provide convenience to passengers by allowing them to purchase tickets in advance, even days before their trip.
Dizon said this system helps avoid fixers as passengers no longer need to wait in long lines or deal with closed ticket booths. The e-ticketing system will ensure a smoother and more comfortable experience with rollout expected within the year.
He was accompanied by PPA General Manager Jay Santiago and PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan during the inspection.