Passengers flocked to major transport hubs across Metro Manila on Tuesday as Holy Week travel peaked, with long lines and near-full bookings reported at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

In the report of DZRH's Jecelle Ricafort, authorities said millions are expected to travel during the Holy Week break despite rising transport costs and operational adjustments by bus companies and airlines.

At PITX, eight bus operators were reported to have raised fares despite a suspension order from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. The landport officials also clarified they have no authority to penalize operators, leaving enforcement to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

Some operators have since rolled back increases, such as a Daet-bound route returning to ₱840 from ₱925, though others maintained higher rates, citing regulatory guidance. Meanwhile, Bicol routes were already over 80% fully booked, reflecting strong demand.

Bus companies also warned of reduced trips due to surging fuel prices linked to tensions in the Middle East. Operators said trips would only be deployed once fully booked, potentially increasing passenger waiting times.

Commuters were urged to secure tickets early as over 1.6 million passengers had already passed through PITX, with projections reaching up to 3 million during the holiday period.

Meanwhile, at NAIA Terminal 3, thick crowds and long queues formed at check-in counters as early as the weekend. The New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC) projected 1.35 million passengers from March 28 to April 5—higher than last year’s figures—with daily averages reaching 150,000 travelers.

Despite the travel surge, authorities anticipate a possible 20% dip in overall passenger traffic due to higher fares, as the Civil Aeronautics Board prepares to raise fuel surcharge levels starting April 1.