12 NOVEMBER 2024 — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (PBBM) cited the efforts of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) in modernizing port facilities and expanding cruise dedicated ports in support of the growing demand in the cruise tourism sector during his speech at the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 event in Pasay City, November 11, 2024.
The President highlighted these developments that are part of the government's strategy under the National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, aimed at improving port facilities, streamlining operations, and elevating the visitor experience for international travelers.
“These accolades are affirmations of our collective vision—one shared by the Department of Tourism, the Philippine Ports Authority, and our local communities—to elevate the Philippines as a premier cruise destination worthy of global recognition,” President Marcos said.
The Philippines has been increasingly recognized as a leader in cruise tourism in Asia, with the country winning multiple prestigious awards, including Asia's Best Cruise Destination at the World Cruise Awards in 2023 and Best Port of Call at the Asia Cruise Awards 2024.
In 2023, the Philippines welcomed over 80,000 cruise passengers from various shipping companies such as Norweigan Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Silversea, Windstar Cruises, and AIDA, generating significant economic activity and opportunities for local communities. The government anticipates a continued upward trend, with more than 100,000 expected cruise passengers for 2024.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago emphasized the importance of building cruise-dedicated ports in the country, which the agency is currently undertaking, to ensure the delivery of quality service and meet the growing demands of the industry.
“These initiatives are designed not only to attract more cruise calls but also to ensure that every ship that arrives in the Philippines contributes to the growth and well-being of local economies,” GM Santiago said.
Under the stewardship of PPA, several ports across the Philippines have been equipped to accommodate cruise vessels, including Currimao in Ilocos Norte, Salomague in Ilocos Sur, Manila, Bohol, and El Nido in Palawan. In a bid to further provide safer and more convenient maritime transportation experience to tourists aboard cruise vessels, PPA has initiated and continuously conducts improvements of its port facilities including the construction of dedicated ports for cruise tourism. PPA has established more cruise terminals in the tourist destinations, including Siargao, Camiguin, Boracay, Palawan, and Puerto Galera.
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