(Photo courtesy of PPA)
OZAMIZ CITY — The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has inaugurated the expanded Port of Plaridel in Misamis Occidental, introducing additional cargo-handling facilities aimed at improving port operations and strengthening maritime trade in Northwestern Mindanao.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago led the inauguration Friday, highlighting the port’s expanded capacity to accommodate rolling cargo and general shipments.
The improvements include a 5,000-square-meter back-up area, an additional 90 meters of berth length, and a new roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ramp.
The facilities are designed to provide more space for cargo storage, vehicle queuing, parking and other port activities, helping improve the movement of goods and vehicles.
“Layunin ng proyektong ito na maglaan ng sapat na espasyo para sa pag-aayos, pagpila, at pagpaparada ng mga rolling cargo, gayundin para sa pag-iimbak ng mga pangkalahatang kargamento,” Santiago said.
The PPA said the expansion is expected to improve operational efficiency and strengthen Plaridel Port’s role as a maritime gateway connecting Northwestern Mindanao with other parts of the country.
The additional infrastructure is also intended to support local businesses, cargo operators and transportation providers by improving access to port facilities.
New passenger route strengthens Visayas-Mindanao connectivity
The port expansion follows the October 23 launch of OceanJet’s Tagbilaran–Lazi–Plaridel route, which connects Bohol, Siquijor and Misamis Occidental.
The new daily fastcraft service provides passengers with an additional transportation option between the Visayas and Mindanao.
Local officials and residents welcomed the service’s inaugural voyage at Plaridel Port, with representatives from the PPA’s Port Management Office in Misamis Occidental and Ozamiz attending the event.
The route is expected to improve passenger mobility, encourage tourism and create additional opportunities for trade among the connected destinations.
With the expanded port facilities and new maritime service, Plaridel is positioned to accommodate increased cargo movement and passenger traffic.
The PPA said the improvements form part of its continuing efforts to modernize port infrastructure, strengthen inter-island connectivity and support economic activity in regional communities.
