Manila:The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is emphasizing affordable sea routes and local tourism destinations accessible through its modernized ports as travelers prepare for the holiday break coinciding with the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit.
According to Philippines News agency, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago mentioned the agency's anticipation that some passengers may have postponed their trips. Santiago noted that the earlier holiday break was brief, running from Saturday to Monday, which may have led people to delay their travels until the upcoming week when a five-day holiday is scheduled.
Through the Port of Davao, travelers have the opportunity to visit Samal Island, Hagimit Falls, and Monfort Bat Sanctuary. The Port of Calapan offers access to Puerto Galera, Tamaraw Falls, and other nature attractions, while Marinduque’s Poctoy White Beach, Tres Reyes Islands, and historic Boac can be reached through the Port of Lucena. Furthermore, the Port of Batangas connects to Oriental Mindoro and other island destinations, while the Port of Banago provides access to attractions in Negros Occidental, such as The Ruins in Talisay City, Mambukal Resort, and Lakawon Island.
The PPA has detailed selected passenger routes, including Lucena-Balanacan at PHP600, while both Lucena-Sibuyan and Lucena-Masbate routes are priced at PHP1,320. Fares for Lucena-Banton, Simara, San Agustin, and Romblon are set at PHP1,200. Davao routes to General Santos and Zamboanga are listed at PHP1,600, Iloilo at PHP2,700, and Manila at PHP2,900. The Calapan-Batangas route starts at around PHP600, depending on the vessel and accommodation class. Additionally, roll-on/roll-off services allow passengers to bring their vehicles between islands.
Under its #PPAsyalTayo campaign, the PPA is promoting destinations accessible through the Ports of Davao, Calapan, Lucena, Batangas, and Banago.
Various groups, including students, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and active personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and Philippine Coast Guard, are exempt from terminal fees at PPA-owned terminals with valid identification. Users of the new Passenger Terminal Building at the Port of Lucena can also enjoy free terminal fees until December 31, 2026. Terminals offer spacious, air-conditioned waiting areas, food establishments, free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and passenger assistance services.
Meanwhile, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has heightened its alert status for the ASEAN Summit from November 16 to 18. MARINA plans to intensify inspections and monitoring of sea vessels from November 13 to 23, especially in areas expecting increased passenger traffic. The agency will ensure vessels have complete documents, authorized passenger capacity, licensed officers and crew, and vessel seaworthiness.
MARINA will suspend dredging, reclamation, and other marine works within 500 yards of the coastlines of Pasay, Manila, and Parañaque from November 15 to 18. A 3.5 by 3.5 nautical mile no-loitering zone will be enforced, prohibiting unauthorized activities such as fishing, diving, and drone flights in restricted zones. These measures are under the mandate of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and directed by Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, with the MARINA Enforcement Service and its Regional Offices leading compliance efforts. MARINA is urging all maritime stakeholders to cooperate and adhere to these directives.
