MANILA — The Philippine Coast Guard is buzzing with activity as more than 10,000 travelers took to the seas early Saturday morning, heading out to islands and provinces to spend All Souls’ Day with family and the dearly departed.
Ports in Batangas, Cebu, and Iloilo were packed before sunrise, with ferries loaded with flowers, candles, and folks in their Sunday best. “It’s a smooth sail so far—no delays, no drama,” a PCG spokesperson said with relief. Extra patrols and K-9 units kept things secure, while life vests were double-checked for every passenger, kids included.
Many are island-hopping to hometowns or cemeteries by the coast, turning the holiday into a mini-reunion on deck. “We left at 4 a.m. to beat the rush,” one mom from Quezon laughed, balancing a basket of suman and a toddler on her hip. “The sea’s calm, the vibe’s good—perfect for remembering.”
By noon, the PCG expects the numbers to climb even higher. For now, it’s all clear skies, full boats, and hearts full of memories.