The world-class Batangas Passenger Terminal — operated by listed trade enabler Asian Terminals Inc. — is more than ready for the expected passenger influx in support of government’s Oplan Byaheng Ayos as schools reopen for face-to-face classes.
ATI officials assured Department of Transportation Undersecretary for maritime sector Elmer Sarmiento — who recently conducted a visit at the port operator’s flagship terminal in Manila along with Philippine Ports Authority officer-in-charge and assistant general manager Atty. Francis Mancile — that the port is prepared for the surge of passengers at the terminal.
Sarmiento, on the other hand, stressed the need for the country’s ports and maritime assets — in partnership with all stakeholders — to remain full steam ahead in supporting seamless trade and delivering convenience to the riding public following the marching orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The ATI said that the BPT is designed to provide utmost convenience and comfort to passengers and students, resulting from its major upgrades which were unveiled in June.
BPT, the country’s biggest and most modern interisland travel hub, can comfortably seat around 3,000 passengers at any one time in Phase 1 of its expansive passenger lounge. It is equipped with airport-like amenities such as LED travel advisory boards, food kiosks, gender-neutral restrooms, mobility features for PWD and free wifi and phone charging stations, among others.
Students are exempted from paying BPT’s terminal fee, along with senior citizens, PWDs and the uniformed personnel, pursuant to PPA AO 04-2019. Students can avail of this privilege by presenting their valid school ID for the current school year.
A dedicated student lane has also been set up inside BPT in support of the Department of Education’s Balik Eskwela Program.
From January to June this year, BPT has handled nearly 1.1 million outbound passengers, signaling the resurgence of traveler traffic in the new normal.