Planning to travel by ferry this Undas 2026? If you’re heading home to the province to visit your loved ones, there’s an online reservation system that could help you avoid the usual long lines at ferry terminals.
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has relaunched its Online Reservation Assistance System, or ORAS, ahead of the expected surge in sea passengers during the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day holidays.
Through this system, travelers can select their preferred ferry schedule and reserve a passenger slot online before going to the port.
For those who have experienced spending hours at a crowded terminal, especially during Undas or Holy Week, this is certainly a welcome development.
However, there’s something important you should understand before making a reservation. ORAS is not an online ferry ticketing service. It is a reservation system that allows passengers to secure a slot for a particular trip. You still need to obtain your actual ferry ticket from the shipping company.
So, how exactly does PPA ORAS work? Which ports are covered? Is the reservation free? And how early should you arrive at the terminal?
Here’s a comprehensive guide to using PPA ORAS for Undas 2026.
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What Is PPA ORAS?
PPA ORAS stands for Online Reservation Assistance System, a digital reservation platform developed by the Philippine Ports Authority to help manage passenger traffic at ferry terminals.
The system allows travelers to reserve a slot for their preferred sailing schedule before arriving at the port.
Instead of going to the terminal without knowing whether a particular trip still has available passenger slots, you can check participating schedules and make a reservation in advance.
This is particularly useful during major holidays when thousands of Filipinos travel between islands.
PPA introduced ORAS in March 2026, initially implementing the system during the Holy Week travel rush.
Following its initial implementation, the agency decided to bring it back for Undas, with some adjustments based on passenger feedback.
One of the biggest changes is the shorter advance-arrival requirement. For Undas 2026, passengers are required to validate their reservations two hours before departure, compared with the previous three-hour requirement.
The idea is simple: make passenger arrivals more organized, reduce congestion at ticket counters, and help travelers plan their trips more conveniently.
PPA ORAS Undas 2026: Latest Updates
The Philippine Ports Authority officially announced the relaunch of ORAS on October 21, 2026.
Here are the important details travelers should know:
| Details | PPA ORAS Undas 2026 |
|---|---|
| Reservation system | Online Reservation Assistance System (ORAS) |
| Government agency | Philippine Ports Authority |
| Online reservations opened | October 24, 2026 |
| Undas travel period | October 28–November 4, subject to available schedules |
| Covered ports | Batangas, Calapan, Lucena and Balanacan |
| Reservation fee | Free |
| ORAS Pass | Digital reservation confirmation with QR code |
| Required arrival | At least 2 hours before departure |
| Ferry ticket | Purchased separately from the shipping line |
| Vehicle passengers | Not covered by ORAS |
The October 28–November 4 travel window was reported following the PPA’s October 21 briefing. Another government media report listed October 28–November 3, so travelers should check the actual dates available in the reservation system.
PPA expects approximately 1.93 million passengers to travel through Philippine ports from October 27 to November 5, 2026.
This represents an estimated 1.55% increase compared with the corresponding period last year.
With that number of passengers expected to travel, making arrangements early is highly recommended.
How to Reserve Ferry Trips Using PPA ORAS Online
The good news is that the reservation process is designed to be simple.
According to PPA, travelers only need to remember three steps: Scan, Choose and Reserve.
Here’s how to complete your reservation.
Step 1: Visit the Official PPA ORAS Website
Open your mobile phone, tablet or computer and access the official PPA ORAS reservation website.
You can type oras.ppa.com.ph directly into your internet browser.
Alternatively, you can scan the official ORAS QR code published through the Philippine Ports Authority’s social media accounts or displayed at participating ferry terminals.
This will direct you to the online reservation platform.
Make sure you’re using the official government system. Avoid unfamiliar websites or social media accounts that claim to offer paid ORAS reservations.
The reservation service itself is free.
Step 2: Choose Your Departure Port
Once you’ve opened the reservation platform, select the port where you intend to board your ferry.
For Undas 2026, the system covers selected trips through four ports:
- Batangas Port
- Calapan Port
- Lucena Port
- Balanacan Port
Choose the correct departure terminal.
For example, if you’re traveling from Batangas City to Oriental Mindoro, you would select Batangas as your departure port and look for the appropriate Calapan-bound sailing.
If you’re traveling from Lucena City to Marinduque, you would look for available trips departing from Lucena toward Balanacan.
Remember that not every ferry route or shipping company is necessarily included. Available routes depend on the schedules and passenger slots allocated by participating operators.
Step 3: Select Your Travel Date and Ferry Schedule
After choosing your port, look for the available travel dates and departure schedules.
Select your preferred date and time.
For example, if you’re planning to return to your province on October 30, look for an available sailing on that date.
If several schedules appear, choose the one that best fits your travel plans.
Consider the time you’ll need to reach the terminal, especially if you’re coming from Metro Manila or another province.
One common mistake during holiday travel is focusing only on the ferry’s departure time without considering traffic conditions on the way to the port.
During Undas, roads leading to major terminals may become congested.
It’s better to choose a realistic departure schedule than to reserve an early trip that you might struggle to catch.
Step 4: Enter Your Passenger Information
The next step is to provide the required passenger details.
During ORAS’s earlier implementation, passengers were asked to complete a registration form and provide identification information.
The process included basic personal details and identity verification through a valid ID or selfie.
You may also be asked to provide an email address for verification and reservation confirmation.
Follow the instructions shown on the current reservation platform.
Before proceeding, double-check your information, particularly your name, travel date, departure port and chosen schedule.
If you’re traveling with family members, make sure every passenger is covered by the appropriate reservation and ticketing arrangements.
For children, seniors and other accompanying passengers, verify the applicable registration procedure with the port help desk if it isn’t clearly explained on the platform.
Step 5: Complete the Verification Process
Depending on the current system requirements, you may be asked to verify your registration using a one-time password or confirmation code.
During the earlier rollout, ORAS used email-based verification to complete reservations.
If the platform asks for a verification code, check your registered email address and enter the code as instructed.
Use an active email address that you can access easily.
Also, avoid sharing verification codes with anyone claiming to be an unofficial booking agent.
Step 6: Confirm Your Reservation and Save Your ORAS Pass
Once your reservation is confirmed, the system will generate your ORAS Pass.
This serves as proof that you have reserved a passenger slot for a particular travel schedule.
The pass includes a QR code that can be presented at the participating port for validation.
I recommend saving a screenshot of your ORAS Pass on your mobile phone.
You can also print a copy if you prefer having a physical backup.
This is particularly helpful when mobile internet connectivity becomes unreliable or when your phone has difficulty loading the reservation page at a crowded terminal.
Keep your ORAS Pass accessible because you’ll need to present it before purchasing your ferry ticket.
Step 7: Arrive at the Port at Least Two Hours Before Departure
Here’s one of the most important parts of the entire process.
Having an ORAS Pass doesn’t mean you can simply arrive a few minutes before the ferry leaves.
For Undas 2026, PPA requires travelers to arrive and complete the necessary reservation validation at least two hours before their scheduled departure.
This gives port personnel and shipping companies time to process reservations and issue tickets.
For example, if your ferry is scheduled to depart at 2:00 PM, you should plan to be at the port by 12:00 noon at the latest.
Personally, I would allow additional travel time during a major holiday, especially if I’m coming from a place where traffic is unpredictable.
PPA has warned that reservations not validated within the required period may be forfeited, with the slots becoming available to other passengers.
In other words, your reserved slot isn’t something you should take for granted.
Step 8: Validate Your Pass and Purchase Your Ferry Ticket
When you arrive at the port, look for the designated ORAS validation area or approach the assistance desk.
Present your ORAS Pass or QR code together with any identification documents required by the port or shipping company.
Once the reservation has been verified, follow the instructions for purchasing your ferry ticket.
Remember that ORAS and ferry ticketing are separate processes.
Your ORAS Pass helps secure your passenger slot, but your actual ferry ticket is issued by the shipping operator.
After obtaining your ticket, proceed through the required terminal, security and boarding procedures.
And that’s it. You’re ready for your ferry trip, subject to the shipping company’s boarding requirements and the vessel’s operating status.
Which Ports Are Covered by PPA ORAS for Undas 2026?
As of the October 21 announcement, ORAS is being implemented at four major passenger ports.
1. Batangas Port
Batangas Port is one of the busiest passenger gateways in Southern Luzon.
It serves travelers heading to several destinations in Mindoro, Romblon, the Visayas and Palawan.
Routes identified in the expanded ORAS coverage include services from Batangas toward destinations such as:
- Calapan
- Puerto Galera
- Abra de Ilog
- Caticlan
- Odiongan
- Coron and other participating destinations
Availability depends on the shipping line and the schedules appearing in ORAS.
For travelers coming from Metro Manila, Cavite or nearby provinces, Batangas Port is an important gateway for sea travel.
Expect increased passenger volume during the holiday period.
2. Calapan Port
Calapan Port in Oriental Mindoro is another major terminal covered by ORAS.
It is especially important for travelers moving between Mindoro and Batangas.
Passengers traveling from Calapan to Batangas should check the system for participating departure schedules.
3. Lucena Port
Lucena Port in Quezon is a major departure point for passengers heading to Marinduque and other island destinations.
The system’s expanded coverage includes selected routes toward:
- Balanacan, Marinduque
- Masbate
- Romblon
Travelers returning to Marinduque for Undas may find ORAS particularly helpful.
4. Balanacan Port
Balanacan Port is located in Mogpog, Marinduque.
It connects the island province with Lucena City and serves many passengers returning home during important holidays.
The Lucena–Balanacan route is among the routes specifically covered by the reservation initiative.
For residents and visitors to Marinduque, reserving a passenger slot in advance may reduce the need to spend extended periods waiting at the terminal.
Keep in mind that ORAS coverage does not automatically mean all sailings and operators at these ports participate.
Always check which trips are actually available before finalizing your plans.
Is PPA ORAS Free?
Yes. Reserving a passenger slot through PPA ORAS is free.
There is no separate ORAS reservation fee.
However, you still need to pay for your ferry ticket and any applicable terminal charges or other legitimate fees.
The cost of the ferry ticket depends on several factors, including your destination, shipping operator, accommodation class, and any applicable passenger discount.
For example, a ferry ticket between Batangas and Calapan will have a different fare from a longer journey to another island.
It’s best to check directly with the participating shipping company for the latest ticket prices.
If someone asks you to pay a special ORAS processing fee simply to secure a reservation, verify the request with the official PPA help desk before paying anything.
Is an ORAS Pass the Same as a Ferry Ticket?
No. This is probably the most important distinction to remember.
An ORAS Pass is a reservation confirmation, not a paid ferry ticket.
It indicates that you have reserved a slot for a participating departure schedule.
A ferry ticket, on the other hand, is the travel document issued by the shipping company after the required purchase or ticketing process.
Even if you have a valid ORAS Pass, you still need to complete the ticketing requirements before boarding.
Think of ORAS as a way to organize your trip before you arrive at the terminal rather than a replacement for the shipping company’s booking and ticketing system.
Do You Need ORAS If You Already Purchased a Ferry Ticket Online?
Not necessarily.
According to the PPA’s October 2026 briefing, the ORAS system does not cover passengers who have already purchased their ferry tickets online through shipping companies.
Some operators already have their own reservation and ticketing platforms.
If you’ve purchased a confirmed ticket directly from your shipping line, follow that company’s instructions regarding check-in, terminal entry and boarding.
You generally don’t need to make a second reservation through ORAS simply because the port is included in the program.
However, it’s still a good idea to check the latest port advisory before traveling.
Is ORAS Required for RoRo Passengers With Vehicles?
For Undas 2026, ORAS does not cover passengers traveling aboard roll-on/roll-off vessels with their vehicles.
This means that if you’re bringing a car, motorcycle or another vehicle onto the ferry, you should follow the shipping company’s existing vehicle reservation and ticketing procedures.
ORAS is intended primarily for passenger reservations within its covered services.
Vehicle bookings involve additional arrangements, including available vehicle deck space, applicable fares and shipping company requirements.
If you’re planning to travel with your own vehicle, contact the ferry operator before heading to the terminal.
Can You Still Travel Without an ORAS Reservation?
Passengers who have not made online reservations may seek assistance at participating port help desks.
PPA has announced assistance desks to help travelers make reservations, including those who are unfamiliar with the online system.
However, walk-in passengers should not assume that a particular sailing will have available slots.
During Undas, some departures may be fully allocated.
This is why making arrangements in advance is still the better option whenever possible.
If you have difficulty using the website, ask for assistance from authorized port personnel rather than relying on unofficial fixers.
What Happens If You Arrive Late for Your ORAS Reservation?
Arriving late could mean losing your reserved passenger slot.
Under the updated Undas rules, passengers must arrive early enough to complete ORAS validation at least two hours before their scheduled departure.
If the reservation isn’t validated within the required period, PPA may release the allocated slot to another passenger.
For instance, if you reserve a 4:00 PM departure but arrive at the terminal shortly before 4:00 PM, don’t assume that the reservation will still be honored.
The best approach is to plan your land journey carefully and arrive well ahead of the deadline.
If something unexpected happens and you’re running late, contact the shipping company or seek assistance from the port’s authorized help desk to determine your available options.
What If Your Ferry Trip Is Canceled?
Ferry cancellations are always a possibility, particularly when unfavorable weather affects sea conditions.
Even with a confirmed ORAS Pass, a sailing may be delayed or canceled for safety or operational reasons.
The Philippine Coast Guard has the authority to prevent vessels from sailing when conditions are unsafe.
PPA officials have indicated that the ORAS system can accommodate schedule adjustments when sailings are canceled.
However, travelers should verify their updated reservation status and follow the shipping company’s instructions rather than assuming that a new departure has automatically been confirmed.
If your ferry is canceled:
- Check the latest announcement from the shipping operator.
- Ask whether your ORAS reservation has been transferred to another sailing.
- Confirm the status of your actual ferry ticket.
- Follow the operator’s instructions concerning rebooking or refunds.
- Avoid proceeding to the port during a serious weather disturbance unless authorities confirm that travel can safely resume.
It’s always better to wait for an official advisory than to spend hours stranded at a terminal.
What If the ORAS Website Is Not Working?
Because ORAS is an online system, passengers may sometimes encounter technical difficulties.
These could include slow loading, failed verification, unavailable schedules or trouble accessing the reservation page.
If you’re having problems, try the following:
Check your internet connection
Make sure your device has a stable connection before submitting the reservation form.
Refresh the page carefully
If the page stops responding, try reloading it.
However, avoid repeatedly submitting the same reservation before checking whether the original request was successful.
Check your email
If you’re waiting for a verification code or reservation confirmation, look in your inbox and spam folder.
Try another browser
You may also try opening the official system through another browser or device.
Contact the port help desk
If the problem continues, ask for assistance from authorized PPA personnel.
Don’t assume your reservation is confirmed until you receive the necessary pass or official confirmation.
What If There Are No Available Ferry Slots?
If your preferred schedule no longer appears in the reservation system, it may mean that its allocated ORAS slots are unavailable.
However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that every ferry sailing on that route has sold out.
Some shipping operators use their own online ticketing platforms and may not participate in ORAS.
You can check alternative departure schedules, inquire directly with the shipping company, or ask an official help desk about available options.
Just avoid making duplicate bookings without understanding the operator’s rules.
Tips for Traveling by Ferry During Undas 2026
Even with an online reservation, traveling during Undas requires a little extra preparation.
Here are some practical tips to make your journey easier.
1. Make Your Reservation Early
If you already know when you’re heading home, don’t leave your reservation until the last minute.
This is especially important for people traveling immediately before November 1 and those returning after the holiday.
2. Check Your Ferry Schedule Before Leaving Home
Shipping schedules can change because of weather, vessel availability or operational adjustments.
Confirm your trip with the shipping operator before traveling to the terminal.
3. Allow Extra Time for Road Traffic
If you’re coming from Metro Manila and traveling to Batangas or Lucena, consider possible congestion along major roads.
Don’t calculate your arrival time based solely on how long the drive usually takes on an ordinary day.
4. Keep Your ORAS Pass and Identification Ready
Save your pass in an easily accessible location on your phone.
If possible, carry a printed copy as a backup.
Also, bring the identification documents required by the shipping company.
5. Prepare Your Travel Budget
Remember that the free ORAS reservation doesn’t cover your ferry fare.
Set aside money for your actual ticket, terminal charges where applicable, food, local transportation and unexpected expenses.
6. Travel Light When Possible
Crowded terminals are easier to navigate when you’re not carrying too many bags.
Keep important documents, cash, your phone and medications in a secure carry-on bag.
7. Follow Official Port Announcements
Listen to terminal announcements and follow the instructions of port security personnel.
During peak travel days, designated queues and boarding arrangements may change depending on passenger volume.
8. Prepare for Possible Delays
Ferry operations are particularly sensitive to weather conditions.
Bring water, snacks, a power bank and other personal essentials in case you encounter a delay.
And most importantly, prioritize safety over reaching your destination at a particular time.
PPA Expects 1.93 Million Sea Passengers During Undas 2026
The relaunch of ORAS comes as Philippine ports prepare for another major holiday travel period.
According to the Philippine Ports Authority, approximately 1.93 million passengers are expected to pass through ports nationwide from October 27 to November 5, 2026.
The agency projects that some of the busiest passenger ports will include:
| Port | Expected Passengers |
|---|---|
| Iloilo River Wharf | 171,077 |
| Babak Port | 113,768 |
| Batangas Port | 108,766 |
| Jordan Port | 94,730 |
| Sasa Port | 94,291 |
These figures are passenger traffic projections, not the number of available ORAS reservations.
The agency also recognizes that higher transportation costs and other economic factors could affect actual passenger volume.
Nevertheless, the expected number of travelers is significant enough to justify early preparation.
It’s worth emphasizing that being one of the country’s busiest ports doesn’t necessarily mean that a port is covered by ORAS.
For this Undas implementation, the announced coverage remains focused on Batangas, Calapan, Lucena and Balanacan.
Frequently Asked Questions About PPA ORAS 2026
When did PPA ORAS open for Undas 2026?
The reservation system reopened on October 24, 2026, ahead of the holiday travel rush.
What is the official PPA ORAS website?
The official website is oras.ppa.com.ph. Travelers can also access the system through QR codes shared by the Philippine Ports Authority.
Is an ORAS reservation free?
Yes. The ORAS reservation itself is free. The actual ferry ticket must be purchased separately.
Can I use ORAS to buy ferry tickets online?
No. ORAS reserves passenger slots. It is not a payment or online ticket-selling platform.
How early should I arrive at the port?
Travelers with ORAS Passes must arrive and complete the required validation at least two hours before their scheduled departure. Allow extra time for traffic and other delays.
Can I use ORAS at any Philippine port?
No. The announced Undas 2026 rollout covers selected sailings through Batangas, Calapan, Lucena and Balanacan.
Can I use ORAS if I’m bringing a motorcycle or car?
The current implementation does not cover RoRo passengers traveling with vehicles. Contact your shipping line for vehicle booking procedures.
Do I need ORAS if I already booked directly with a shipping company?
Passengers who already purchased ferry tickets online through their shipping companies are not covered by the ORAS reservation process. Follow the operator’s boarding requirements.
Can senior citizens and PWDs get assistance?
Yes. PPA has announced help desks and priority lanes for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and pregnant passengers at participating ports.
Does an ORAS Pass guarantee that the ferry will depart?
No. An ORAS Pass provides a reservation slot for a participating scheduled trip. Actual sailing remains subject to vessel operations, weather conditions, safety requirements and the shipping company’s procedures.
What should I do if I lose my ORAS Pass?
Check whether you can retrieve it through your original confirmation email or the reservation platform. If you’re unable to recover it, ask the authorized port help desk for assistance.
Can I use the same ORAS Pass for my return trip?
Don’t assume that your outbound pass covers a separate return sailing. Verify the reservation requirements for each departure, and make sure you have the appropriate booking or ticket for your return journey.
Final Thoughts
Traveling by ferry during Undas has always required a little extra patience.
For many Filipinos, the holiday is an opportunity to return home, spend time with family and visit the resting places of loved ones.
But before we can enjoy those meaningful moments, there’s often the challenge of getting to the province.
Long ticket lines, crowded terminals, unpredictable weather and fully booked sailings can make the journey stressful.
That’s why the return of PPA’s Online Reservation Assistance System is a welcome initiative.
By allowing passengers to reserve their preferred ferry schedules before arriving at the terminal, ORAS can help make holiday travel more organized and predictable.
Of course, the system is not a complete replacement for traditional ferry ticketing. You’ll still need to validate your reservation, purchase your actual ticket and follow the shipping company’s boarding procedures.
But having a reserved passenger slot ahead of time is certainly better than traveling to a crowded port without knowing whether you can get on your preferred sailing.
If you’re planning to travel through Batangas, Calapan, Lucena or Balanacan this Undas 2026, consider checking the ORAS system before leaving home.
Make your reservation early, confirm your ferry schedule, arrive at least two hours before departure, and monitor official advisories for possible changes.
A little preparation can make a big difference, especially when thousands of other travelers are heading home for the same holiday.
Safe travels, and may you have a meaningful Undas with your family!
Information updated October 25, 2026. This guide reflects the Philippine Ports Authority’s October 21 announcement and subsequent Undas travel advisories. Ferry schedules, participating operators, reservation availability and port procedures may change. Always confirm the latest details with PPA and your shipping company before traveling.
