Manila: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) logged a significant increase in the number of travelers and fewer drowning incidents during the Holy Week compared to 2025. In an interview over state-run People's Television Network on Monday, spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said the PCG monitored almost 3.4 million maritime passengers across the country since 'Oplan Biyaheng Ayos' began on March 28.

According to Philippines News Agency, in 2025, PCG recorded less than three million maritime passengers. In addition, drowning incidents went down to 37, compared to 53 last year. Commodore Cayabyab highlighted the benefits of the early information campaign conducted by the PCG, with the help of coastal communities and media platforms, to disseminate safety and security measures.

She noted that drowning occurred in tourist hotspots, not during travel. The incidents were particularly logged in northern areas known for surfing. A significant commonality among the victims and those rescued was alcohol consumption.

Aside from these mishaps, a passenger ferry also ran aground in Lubang, Occidental Mindoro. All 162 passengers and eight crew members were rescued by responding authorities and crew of MV Princess Christine II, a commercial vessel. The PCG's intensified safety and security inspection of ships ensured there were no passenger overloading incidents.

Cayabyab emphasized the directive from Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan to intensify pre-departure inspections, ensuring all ships are seaworthy and that passenger capacity matches what is stated in their certificates. During the period, the PCG also rolled out the 'e-sumbong' digital complaint platform through QR codes placed in ships, ports, and terminals that passengers can scan to report their concerns.