A controversy has erupted over the Philippine Ports Authority’s (PPA) decision to lock stranded passengers out of Batangas Port’s modern passenger terminal as Typhoon Kristine hit Luzon and Visayas, leaving approximately 200 travelers exposed to harsh weather conditions.

The incident, which local officials say is a recurring practice during storms, has drawn sharp criticism from residents and local government representatives.

Passengers bound for Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, and Romblon were left waiting outside the terminal gates despite having paid the P30 terminal fee.

“Many passengers couldn’t return to Metro Manila because they only had enough money for ferry tickets and no additional funds for food,” said a social media post by Revorski Mindorensis that went viral, exposing the plight of stranded travelers.

Maritime operations were suspended at the port after a vessel broke from its moorings due to strong waves and winds, prompting a response from the Philippine Coast Guard.

Local officials, including Oriental Mindoro Rep. PA Umali, intervened with PPA management to eventually allow passengers into the air-conditioned terminal building.

The resolution came after widespread social media criticism of what netizens described as an “inhumane” policy.

Critics pointed to a disconnect between the port’s modern facilities and its emergency protocols, with one social media user asking, “Is this the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ we were promised?”

PPA has not yet responded to media requests for comment on its terminal access policies during weather-related port closures.

Batangas Port serves as a crucial maritime gateway connecting Luzon to MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) provinces, handling thousands of passengers daily.

Photo credits: Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI)