11 NOVEMBER 2022, MANILA—The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) in close collaboration with the Local Chief Executives (LCEs) of Sorsogon and its residents, guarantees continuous and immediate changes to resolve the challenges being experienced at Matnog Port.
In a meeting between the PPA top officials and the Sorsogon LCEs on November 10, 2022, both parties laid out their plans to improve port-users’ experience at the port. Attendees of the meeting include Second District Representative Wowo Fortes, Sorsogon Governor Boboy Hamor, Vice Governor Jun Escudero, Provincial Administrator Eric Ravanilla and the members of the Sorsogon Provincial Board and Youth Council.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago assured that there are no let-ups in the local government and PPA initiatives in improving the operations in Matnog Port. In fact, some are already being enjoyed by the public.
"We are continuously creating programs and projects catering to the needs of the people. In fact, this meeting with the Sorsogon LGU opened new doors for the passengers, traders, and tourists utilizing Matnog Port," said Santiago.
Meanwhile, Port Manager Ma. Magnolia Sinson-Requejo of the Port Management Office (PMO) of Bicol expressed that the number of people complaining about the long queue outside the port significantly dwindled down since the installation of the one-stop-shop (OSS). Through the one-stop-shop, which houses all offices in one, single area, it is now easier and faster to arrange the booking and payment of fees resulting in faster turnaround time of vessels.
"The queue used to be really long, but with the OSS situated just adjacent to the port, it really accelerated the process," according to the Bicol Port Manager.
According to PM Sinson-Requejo, the PMO likewise initiated the early warning system during inclement weather to prevent stranded passengers at the port. "The issuance of advisory has been regularly coordinated with the Office of Civil Defense Region 5, the Land Transportation Office, and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to reach out to passengers during bad weather immediately," Requejo added.
Currently, the average daily passenger volume passing Matnog Port is around 2,500-3,000, which reaches 10,000 during peak seasons like elections and summer vacations.
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