DOTr orders shipping lines to go online for Undas 2025 travel

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has directed shipping lines to implement an online ticketing and booking system in anticipation of high passenger volumes at ports during Undas 2025.

The North Port Passenger Terminal is expected to have 700 to 1,000 passengers at the start of the week, with about 3,000 expected on Thursday and Friday.

Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) spokesperson Unice Samonte advised it is better to secure tickets online for easy entry to the terminal.

During an inspection at the Batangas Port, DOTr found that some shipping lines do not have an online ticketing and booking system.

DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that it is harder to monitor passenger numbers and that a lack of online booking contributes to overloading, especially during holidays like Undas.

Around 2.2 million passengers are expected at the ports from October 27 to November 5, an increase from the 1.9 million travelers during the same period last year.

The PPA will deploy all of its personnel for All Saints Day and All Souls Day, with the Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine National Police Maritime Group also deploying personnel for public security.