Ferry Discounts Philippines: Student, Senior & PWD
Updated Sep 30, 2026 · Philippines Ferry
The Philippines mandates real fare discounts on sea travel under MARINA Memorandum Circular 2018-07 and related laws. Many travellers don't claim them simply because they don't know the rules.
Who gets what
- ▸ Senior citizens (60+): 20% off base fares, plus VAT exemption, with senior ID
- ▸ PWDs: 20% off plus VAT exemption, with PWD ID
- ▸ Students: 20% off on fares with a valid school ID and registration form (weekday travel terms vary by operator)
- ▸ Children: typically half fare for ages ~3–7, free for infants on an adult's lap
How to claim it
Discounts are easiest to claim at ticketing offices where staff verify the ID. Some online systems now support discount codes — check the operator's site. The discount applies to the base fare, not to terminal fees or vehicle freight.
If an operator refuses
The discount is a legal obligation for domestic shipping. Note the vessel and date, keep your ticket, and file a complaint with MARINA. Our fare tables show discounted rates where operators publish them.
More ferry travel guides
Taking a Car or Motorbike on a Philippine Ferry (RoRo Guide): How RoRo vehicle freight works — rates, documents (OR/CR), loading times, and which routes carry cars and motorbikes.
Manila to Boracay by Ferry: Every Option Explained: How to get from Manila to Boracay by ferry — direct 2GO sailings to Caticlan, the Batangas shortcut, fares, travel time and which option suits your budget.
How to Get to Palawan by Ferry (Puerto Princesa & Coron): Manila to Puerto Princesa and Coron by ferry — operators, travel time, fares, and how to choose between the slow ferry, fast ferry and flying.
Check current ferry cancellations and sea conditions before you travel, because sailings can be suspended during typhoons or when the Coast Guard raises a gale warning. Browse all ferry schedules or ferries by destination to compare operators.