The Philippine Port Authority (PPA) said it continues to modernize port facilities and expand cruise ports to meet growing cruise tourism demand.
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 that 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,” 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.
