E-ticketing system in Batangas port before Christmas - Dizon

Batangas, Philippines - An e-ticketing system will be in place before Christmas to address long lines during holidays at the Batangas Port, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said on Thursday, April 10.

The transportation chief inspected Luzon’s biggest port ahead of the Holy Week break, where thousands of passengers are expected to head to provinces.

Dizon said at least six e-ticketing kiosks will be set up in the port in the next few months. He said the system was already carried out before but was suspended.

“Kapag may e-ticketing tayo wala na masyado pila. Kasi nga anytime. Kaya lang kasi may pila nandito sila maaga, pero sarado pa mga booth,” he said.

[Translation: If we have an e-ticketing system, there will be no long queues. Because they can book tickets anytime. There are long lines because physical booths are still closed.]

Dizon said the system will also help monitor overloading.

The transportation chief said he issued a memorandum circular banning this practice.

“Pwede silang i-suspend, pwedeng makansela ang lisensya nila. At malaki-laki ang fines diyan,” he said.

[Translation: Shipping lines can get suspended. Their license may be revoked and there will be hefty fines.]

Once the e-ticketing system is up, Dizon noted that passengers may no longer rely on “fixers” or those who sell tickets at a higher price.

Meanwhile, Dizon said he directed the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to set up more WiFi for internet connectivity inside the port.

The PPA earlier said around 1.7 million passengers may pass through ports during the Holy Week break on April 12 to 20. At Batangas port alone, up to 25,000 passengers are expected daily during the peak season next week.