By Alexia Bangayan

Various government agencies have been placed on alert to ensure safe and orderly Christmas and New Year celebrations across the country, from Tuesday, December 23, to Thursday, December 25.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced the temporary lifting of the number coding scheme in Metro Manila on selected days during the Christmas and New Year period.

The coding scheme will be suspended from December 23 to December 25 and from December 29 to January 2, 2026.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed over 70,700 personnel on heightened alert at churches, highways, malls, and transport terminals across the country.

In anticipation of the expected surge of passengers, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) increased its security across all airports nationwide under the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2025.

In response, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) authorities implemented upgrades across all terminals to accommodate the passengers. 

Moreover, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), instructed local chief executives (LCEs), the PNP, and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to prioritize safety as millions travel home.

LCEs were directed to convene Local Peace and Order Councils (LPOCs) to plan for security, traffic, and crowd control.

The DILG also emphasized the use of firecrackers, with BFP assisting Local Government Units (LGUs) and the PNP in ensuring that designated fireworks areas comply with the Fire Code of the Philippines, or RA 9514.

Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that security measures are in place and are being regularly adjusted based on the situation, with police personnel and resources redeployed to ensure public safety amid the increase in passengers.
In mid-December, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. released a memorandum mandating simple and frugal celebrations for all national agencies, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, in solidarity with those affected by the calamities.