Improved Jose Panganiban Port to Boost Trade in Bicol Region – PPA

MANILA – The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) announced that the Jose Panganiban Port Improvement Project will significantly enhance trade and the economy in the Bicol Region, focusing on export cargo operations in Camarines Norte. This development came to light during the project’s groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the improvement project aims to expand the port’s capacity from handling 8,673 metric tons (MT) of cargo and accommodating one roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel before the Covid-19 pandemic to managing 18,516 MT and housing two RoRo vessels by 2032. Santiago explained, “This will be a big help to our people in Camarines Norte as it will serve as a logistics hub due to its strategic location in the middle of Bicol region and the National Capital Region (NCR).”

The project is set to aid in the export of local products from Camarines Norte, including coconut and by-products, iron ore, silica, and copra. Santiago added, “Local products from Camarines Norte will have a bridge through the PPA port to neighboring countries.” During the event, Senator Robinhood Padilla expressed gratitude to the PPA, emphasizing the project’s role in fostering local economic growth. “You are the first national government agency that gave us hope of progress and that our ports will be developed,” Padilla noted.

The Jose Panganiban Port Improvement Project is part of the PPA’s ongoing efforts to modernize ports across the country, aiming to enhance the capabilities of the country’s seaports and strengthen the maritime industry.