THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is planning to reclaim at least 200 hectares of land in the port area to host bulk and breakbulk facilities.
PPA said the target area is between the Pasig River and South Harbor, a few meters from the Manila International Container Terminal.
The reclamation, ordered by Transport Secretary Jose de Jesus, will accommodate investors interested in the "long-term operation of commercial ports catering to a wide range of dry or liquid bulk cargoes such as wheat/flour, minerals, petroleum products, and others which at present have to be rerouted to other sites or handled shipside because of lack of or inadequate accessible Manila-based bulk handling facilities," PPA general manager Atty. Juan Sta. Ana said.
PPA has created a committee to review, evaluate and recommend a strategic framework for the development. The committee will in particular review policies on commercial ports to establish guidelines on the qualification requirements of applicants, procedures for filing of application, criteria for evaluation and approval, development/operational limitations as well as extent of restrictions imposed on present contracts with Manila-based terminal operators.
The committee report, expected to be completed before yearend, will serve as basis for future development efforts.
The Ports of Manila — composed of the North Harbor, South Harbor, Manila Harbor Center and the Manila International Container Terminal – are operated by the Manila North Harbour Port, Inc, Asian Terminals, Inc, Harbour Centre Port Terminals, Inc, and International Container Terminal Services, Inc, respectively. Together they handle the bulk of the country’s local and foreign trade.
