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The Bases Conversion and Development Authority and Public-Private Partnership Center signed a technical assistance agreement to move forward with project preparation and transaction advisory for the modernization of San Fernando International Seaport
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The project aims to transform the current bulk and break-bulk terminal into a world-class logistics hub with modern port infrastructure and systems
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Construction for the modernization project is targeted to start in 2027 and finish by 2029
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Public-Private Partnership Center (PPPC) signed a technical assistance agreement to move forward with project preparation and transaction advisory for the modernization of San Fernando International Seaport (SFIS) in Poro Point, La Union.
The project aims to transform the current bulk and break-bulk terminal into a world-class logistics hub with modern port infrastructure and systems, enabling full containerization, streamlining logistics, and strengthening Northern Luzon’s role in global trade, the BCDA said in a statement.
Earlier, the BCDA said the project secured provisional funding under PPPC’s Project Development and Monitoring Facility to engage consultants to undertake end-to-end preparation of the project under a public-private partnership arrangement.
READ: San Fernando seaport secures funds for feasibility studies
“We are eager to move this project forward. Poro Point is a major asset with significant opportunities. This milestone brings us closer to unlocking its full potential,” PPPC deputy executive director Eleazar Ricote said.
“With the PPP Center as our co-architect, this modernization will finally be realized,” added BCDA executive vice president and chief operating officer Gisela Kalalo.
For his part, BCDA president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang said Poro Point Free Zone may be the smallest among the agency’s economic zones “but we want it to stand out as one of our crown jewels—leading in scale and competitiveness in the region.”
Construction for the modernization project is targeted to start in 2027 and finish by 2029.
The project will enable full containerization, including the establishment of container terminals and automated yard systems; installation of quay and yard cranes for faster cargo turnaround; expansion of storage and stacking areas; deployment of advanced terminal operating systems, gate automation, and digital freight management; improvement of road and future rail connectivity for seamless cargo movement; as well as integration of gender, environmental, and climate safeguards into planning and design.
Once finished, the facility will anchor regional industries, support supply chains, and position Poro Point as a strategic gateway for Northern Luzon, BCDA said.
BCDA subsidiary Poro Point Management Corp. currently operates SFIS.
