The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reported a safe and secure holiday travel season across the country's 44 commercial airports, with no untoward incidents recorded from December 20, 2025, to January 1, 2026.
Record Passenger Numbers Processed Smoothly
According to CAAP information officer Bea Bernardo, the airports under its operation successfully serviced a total of 731,396 passengers during the crucial holiday period. The country's primary gateway, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), saw significant traffic throughout the entire month of December, handling 4.86 million international and domestic travelers. Data from its private operator, the New NAIA Infra Corp., reveals that NAIA's total passenger traffic for the year 2025 reached a staggering 52.02 million.
Heightened Security Yields Confiscations, Zero Incidents
Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Administrator Gilberto Cruz confirmed that security screening across all Philippine airports during the holidays proceeded without any major security breaches. "No untoward incident was recorded," Cruz stated in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Friday, January 2. Screeners, however, remained vigilant, confiscating a range of prohibited items from passengers, including sharp objects, flammable materials, and various chemicals.
Cruz emphasized the critical role of passenger awareness in maintaining security. "It's important that they check the prohibited items. Don't accept baggage from strangers, or any if they do not know what's inside it," he advised.
Post-New Year Travel Advisory
For those traveling after the New Year, officials issued clear guidance to ensure continued smooth operations. Travelers are strongly advised to:
- Plan their trips ahead of time.
- Arrive early at the airport.
- Double-check all travel requirements before heading to the terminal.
Administrator Cruz also urged the public to take personal responsibility. "We also urge them to take care of their personal belongings and heed the rules in airport terminals. Coordinate with authorities if they notice any suspicious situation," he said. He assured the public that government agencies are working in concert to maintain safe and orderly travel, noting that this effort aligns with a directive from the President to assist passengers and ensure their comfort, especially for those returning to Manila.
The successful management of the holiday rush underscores the coordinated efforts of aviation and security authorities in the Philippines, ensuring that millions of Filipinos and visitors could travel safely during one of the busiest times of the year.
