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The San Fernando International Seaport project in Poro Point, La Union recently secured provisional funding under the Public-Private Partnership Center’s Project Development and Monitoring Facility
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Following the recent issuance of a technical assistance agreement, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and PPPC will jointly engage consultants to undertake the end-to-end preparation of the project under a PPP arrangement
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The advisory package covers feasibility studies, market analysis, legal and financial structuring, PPP transaction support, and other related expenses, with a budget of P74.90 million
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BCDA is eyeing to break ground on the Poro Point Seaport modernization by the second quarter of 2027, with full completion targeted by 2029
The San Fernando International Seaport (SFIS) project in Poro Point, La Union recently secured provisional funding under the Public-Private Partnership Center’s (PPPC) Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF).
Following the recent issuance of a technical assistance agreement, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and PPPC will jointly engage consultants to undertake end-to-end preparation of the project under a PPP arrangement, BCDA said in a statement. BCDA subsidiary Poro Point Management Corp (PPMC) currently operates SFIS.
The advisory package covers feasibility studies, market analysis, legal and financial structuring, PPP transaction support, and other related expenses, with a budget of P74.90 million.
The full redevelopment and modernization of SFIS aims to transform the current bulk and break-bulk terminal into a world-class seaport equipped with modern port infrastructure and logistics systems, BCDA noted.
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.
BCDA president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang said the project “is a critical step in realizing Poro Point’s vision as a strategic economic gateway for Northern Luzon.” He noted that “Northern Luzon has long been underserved by modern port infrastructure, limiting its ability to fully participate in global trade flows.”
The project scope is divided into six phases, beginning with project inception and market assessment, followed by feasibility study and structuring, and assistance in securing government approvals. It will continue through the preparation of documents and PPP bidding support, and will conclude with post-contract signing advisory services.
BCDA is eyeing to break ground on the Poro Point Seaport modernization by the second quarter of 2027, with full completion targeted by 2029.
Once operational, the upgraded seaport will support regional industries in Pangasinan, La Union, and the Ilocos provinces as well as enhance Poro Point Freeport Zone’s appeal to logistics investors and export-oriented manufacturers here and abroad.
PPMC took over interim seaport operations of SFIS after the previous operator Poro Point Industrial Corp. ceased operations after its contract expired on October 31, 2024. PPMC operates and manages the 236.5-hectare Poro Point Free Zone, where the seaport is situated.
READ: Dismissal of land claim clears way for San Fernando seaport revitalization
