MANILA -- Some 4.7 million Filipinos passed through ports all over the country during the holidays, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said Tuesday.

The PPA said 4,743,931 passengers visited ports from December 15 to January 5, the highest number seen since the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is also higher than the 4,366,933 seen in 2023.

An improving economy has allowed more Filipinos to travel during Christmas, the agency said.

"As the country emerges from previous economic challenges and typhoons, increased disposable income and greater mobility have led to a higher number of travelers," the PPA said.

The PPA also said sea travel continues to be the preferred mode of transportation for many Filipinos because it is affordable and accessible, and because of the extensive network of domestic routes connecting the country’s islands. 

Traveling by sea is a practical solution for those visiting provinces, especially during peak periods like Christmas and New Year, when demand for transportation is at its highest, PPA said.

Aside from Philippine seaports, the Ninoy Aquino and International Airport and Clark International Airport also saw a record number of passengers over the holidays.

NAIA sees record passengers in 2024

Clark airport sees more passengers in 2024