The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has reported a significant increase in passenger traffic at ports across the country during the recent Holy Week, even as the nation grapples with an ongoing oil crisis. According to PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, the agency documented approximately 3.4 million outbound and inbound passengers at more than 300 ports from Palm Sunday on March 28 through Monday, April 6.
Passenger Numbers Exceed Previous Year
This figure notably surpasses the 3 million passengers recorded during the same period last year, indicating a robust travel trend despite economic pressures. Commodore Cayabyab explained that many travelers began their journeys starting on Easter Sunday, following an extended holiday break, contributing to the heightened activity at maritime terminals.
Safety Measures and Incident Reports
In terms of safety, the PCG official highlighted that no major incidents were reported during the peak of Holy Week observances. This success is attributed to early information campaigns conducted by the coast guard to promote safe travel practices. However, there were 37 drowning incidents recorded, a decrease from the 53 incidents reported in the previous year.
Specific areas such as Cagayan and Aurora were noted for these drowning cases, where strong waves posed additional risks to swimmers and beachgoers. The PCG continues to monitor these regions closely to enhance public safety during holiday seasons.
Impact of Oil Crisis on Travel
Despite the surge in passenger numbers, the backdrop of an oil crisis has raised concerns about travel costs and logistics. The increase in travel activity suggests that many Filipinos prioritized traditional Holy Week journeys, possibly adjusting budgets to accommodate higher fuel prices. This trend underscores the resilience of cultural and religious practices in the face of economic challenges.
The PCG's efforts in managing port operations and ensuring safety have been crucial in facilitating this travel surge, demonstrating effective coordination amid fluctuating conditions.
