PPA inaugurates P5.7B Manila South Harbor expansion

Manila South Harbor has expanded with new infrastructure and two of the tallest electric-powered cranes in the Philippines, enhancing its capacity to handle container traffic. The modernization program, costing P5.7 billion, includes the extension of Pier 3 and the expansion of the container yard. ATI President Eusebio Tanco emphasized that the upgrades will make the port a more efficient national trade hub, supporting industries and creating jobs. DP World, through its subsidiary Asian Terminals Incorporated, invested heavily in the Philippines, viewing it as a key port and transportation hub. The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) welcomed the expansion, noting that it will improve shipping processes and reduce delays by accommodating more ships and speeding up cargo processing. PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago stated that the expansion will enable the port to handle 2 million 20-foot equivalent units of cargo, up from 1.4 million last year. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon praised the improvements as world-class, noting that the cranes are comparable to those in more developed countries. At Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Dizon and Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado inspected Terminal 3 to ensure continuous improvement of airport operations and passenger services.