Members of the Philippine Coast Guard stand at attention during a readiness inspection at the PCG Headquarters in Port Area, Manila, on December 7, 2023. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday said it is on heightened alert until January 3, 2025 for the holiday season, with no untoward incidents recorded so far. 

PCG Commandant CG Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said the heightened alert status was raised on Dec. 20 and they deployed more personnel and K-9 units to help with security matters. 

"May additional tayong sea marshalls. Yung inspection lalo natin pinaigting," Gavan said. 

"Wala pa namang report na may mga stranded," he added. 

Gavan reminded passengers not to bring pointed objects and alcoholic drinks in ports. 

"Yung mga excess baggage baka puwedeng iwasan. At dapat alam nila ang life jackets, kung saan ang mga exits ng barko. Dapat silang magmasid, mapagmatyag," he said. 

The PCG commandant also told passengers to contact PCG personnel should there be a problem. 

As of Saturday, authorities have already observed heavier traffic both in land and skies, as more travelers head back to the metro or return to the provinces for the holidays.

READ: Heavier traffic observed in roads, skies ahead of Christmas