Large numbers of Filipinos continued their journeys home on Saturday, returning from holiday travel as the work week and school year approach. The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) saw a significant influx of passengers, as did transportation hubs across the country.
Holiday Travel Reaches Peak
Travelers reported spending the Christmas and New Year’s holidays in Metro Manila and various provinces. Many are now heading back to their home provinces ahead of the resumption of classes and office work on Monday. One passenger traveling from Valenzuela City to Bicol expressed the difficulty of being separated from family again, noting a potentially long wait before their next visit with their mother.
The highest single-day passenger count at PITX occurred on December 23, with over 231,000 individuals passing through the terminal. Passenger numbers decreased on New Year’s Eve. Elsewhere, the Philippine Ports Authority reported more than 160,000 passengers traveling through ports from December 13 until Saturday noon.
Challenges in Transportation
While many routes continued to operate, some passengers faced difficulties. At the Lipa City Grand Terminal, travelers heading to Metro Manila experienced issues boarding buses due to a reported shortage. Trips from the Bulan Integrated Terminal in Sorsogon to Manila were fully booked, with the next available seats not expected until January 5.
To address the demand, augmentation bus units were deployed to assist passengers traveling from areas like Pangasinan and Baguio City. Security remained a priority at PITX, with all baggage undergoing inspection, including the use of K-9 units. Authorities confirmed that prohibited items were confiscated from passengers on Saturday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the busiest day at PITX during this period?
December 23, 2025, saw the highest foot traffic at PITX, with more than 231,000 passengers recorded.
Where else experienced high passenger volumes?
Heavy passenger traffic was also reported at the Philippine Ports Authority, with over 160,000 passengers traveling through ports between December 13 and Saturday noon.
What steps were taken to address transportation shortages?
Augmentation bus units were deployed to assist passengers, particularly those traveling from Pangasinan and Baguio City.
As Filipinos return to their routines, transportation networks could remain strained in the coming days. It is possible that demand will gradually decrease as the week progresses, but continued monitoring of passenger volumes is likely to be necessary.
