MANILA, Philippines — The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) recorded at least 204,647 passengers on Saturday night amid the influx of people going to the provinces to celebrate Christmas in their hometowns.
PITX corporate affairs and government relations head Jason Salvador said that the total number of commuters who used or passed through PITX on Dec. 23 was the highest recorded in the terminal since Dec. 15.
Salvador added that at least 2.6 million passengers are expected to use the PITX from Dec. 15 to Jan. 3, 2024.
For her part, Philippine Port Authority (PPA) spokesperson Eunice Samonte said that the red alert status is still in effect at various ports in the country with an expected 5.1 million passengers.
“We are implementing a red alert status. This has been in effect since the bombing in Marawi City. All employees of PPA are required to report during the peak season,” she said in a radio interview.
Samonte added that PPA has also deployed more port police and K-9 units.
“Also included in our security forces are members of the Philippine Coast Guard. We also have the 24/7 help desk as we expect an increase of passengers to 5.1 million compared to 4.7 million last year,” she added.