Batangas: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez on Monday ordered maritime agencies under the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to prioritize the safety and convenience of passengers during the observance of Undas 2025 from Nov. 1 to 2. This directive was given during Lopez's inspection of Batangas Port to ensure compliance with safety measures.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lopez's order to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) was in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure safe and proper travel for passengers. Lopez emphasized the importance of assisting passengers who may encounter problems, stating that these agencies would be the first point of contact.

During the Batangas Port inspection, Lopez evaluated a Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) vessel to ensure its readiness and compliance with emergency requirements, such as the provision of life vests. He also reviewed port facilities, including waiting areas for passengers, those specific for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWD), comfort rooms, dining areas, air-conditioning systems, and the port's 8,000-person seating capacity.

Lopez urged shipping lines to implement an online ticketing system to enhance convenience and prevent overloading. He highlighted the difficulty in monitoring passenger numbers and stressed that overloading is illegal, making an online system necessary.

Lopez was accompanied by PPA General Jay Santiago and other executives of the DOTr and its attached agencies during the inspection. Santiago assured passengers that there would be no increase in terminal fees for the remainder of the year.

The PPA estimated that 2.2 million passengers are expected at the country's ports during Undas, representing a 15 percent increase compared to the same period last year.