Passenger traffic is projected to rise by 20 percent this Holy Week despite continuous mega oil price hikes amid Middle East crisis.

During a press briefing at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Rear Admiral Oliver Sy Tanseco said the increase will not be limited to ports alone but will extend to other modes of transportation, as reported by RH Jecelle Ricafort.

Tanseco explained that the rise is driven by long-standing travel plans of many Filipinos for Holy Week, with some having purchased tickets even before the global oil crisis.

When asked whether public transport can accommodate the expected exodus, he assured that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ensured sufficient trips by public utility vehicles (PUVs).

Several government agencies, including the Coast Guard, are also offering free rides to passengers during the period.

Tanseco emphasized that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is strictly monitoring PUVs to prevent unauthorized fare hikes.

He urged the public to report any violations to the Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Compliance Team (SAICT), which will coordinate with management and file cases against offending personnel if necessary.

“In case lang mayroon pong mansamantala o magtaas ng pamasahe o kung hindi naman mali ang kanilang serbisyo alam niyo po isumbong niyo po agad sa SAICT and makakarating ‘yan sa management. And if needed we will file cases po doon sa mga involved na personnel,” Tanseco said.