-
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. directed the Department of Transportation to expand the country’s port systems, in particular agricultural ports, to lessen the cost of goods and transport services
-
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the president’s order included developing regional airports to boost tourism
-
Among the government’s priority programs under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 is port expansion, which aims to enhance connectivity across regions nationwide
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. directed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to expand the country’s port systems, in particular agricultural ports, to lessen the cost of goods and transport services.
Newly-appointed Transportation Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon said Marcos ordered him to focus on the expansion of agricultural ports “because one reason why the prices of food is so high is connectivity, which is because of transport costs.”
Dizon said during a Malacañang briefing last week the president’s order included developing regional airports to boost tourism.
As such, the private sector is expected to play a crucial role in realizing the plans.
“I’m going to make sure that our good GM (general manager) in PPA (Philippine Ports Authority), GM Jay Santiago, we can work with the Department of Agriculture and the other agencies to make sure we are able to establish these ports all over the country,” said Dizon.
Among the government’s priority programs under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 is port expansion, which aims to enhance connectivity across regions nationwide and improve the economic trade and transaction system.
Under the PDP, the government plans to connect strategic infrastructures such as ports to cargo and freight rail infrastructure. Railway development has been prioritized to accommodate long-distance deliveries efficiently.
Late last year, Marcos witnessed the signing of various government infrastructure projects, including the construction of the New Cebu International Container Port and the Cebu Bus Transit transportation system.
READ: DOTr signs 5 infra projects, including for new Cebu port
New Cebu International Container Port finally breaks ground
The expansion project of the Bohol-Panglao International Airport and the construction of new regional airports in Dumaguete and Siargao were likewise signed.
The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority will also expand and modernize its seaport and airport to boost the country’s economic corridor.
