State-run Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said the country’s premier maritime gateways and all major terminals nationwide remain fully operational amid the rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the recent closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane.
Despite international developments, the PPA confirms that domestic port operations continue without disruption, maintaining the steady flow of trade and maritime services across the archipelago.
The PPA said there are no direct operational or routing disruptions affecting Philippine ports at this time, even as developments abroad continue to influence certain international shipping passageways.
PPA general-manager Jay Santiago said shipments from the Middle East are largely energy-related.
He said the PPA continues to coordinate with shipping lines, port operators, and relevant government agencies to closely monitor global developments and ensure the uninterrupted flow of trade.
“We do have shipments that pass through the Strait of Hormuz, particularly those originating from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq. Exposure is primarily crude oil, refined petroleum products, and LNG,” Santiago said.
There are also some petrochemicals and fertilizer imports, as well as limited containerized cargo from Gulf transshipment hubs such as Jebel Ali, but the bulk of the strategic exposure is energy-related,” he added.
Santiago said, however, traders may expect possible increases in freight service costs should tensions further escalate.
“There is no direct operational routing issue affecting our ports. However, any disruption in global shipping routes could affect freight rates, bunker costs, and eventually cargo volumes,” he said.
PPA also underscored the strength of the domestic port system, supported by sustained cargo growth. In 2025, cargo throughput rose by six percent to 307.64 million metric tons, driven by increased demand for construction materials and petroleum products. The growth reflects continued infrastructure activity and stable demand across key sectors of the economy.
The state-run port authority reiterated its commitment to closely coordinate with shipping lines, port operators and relevant government agencies to monitor global developments and ensure the uninterrupted movement of trade through Philippine ports.
Meanwhile, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) said it is closely monitoring the navigational status of all Philippine-Registered Overseas Fleet (PROF) vessels operating in international waters.
In response, MARINA has issued Advisory No. 2026-08, directing shipping companies to implement stringent security protocols based on international maritime guidelines, emphasizing the need for a strict radio watch and constant coordination with the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations ( UKMTO and other maritime authorities while navigating the region.
Vessels are also required to monitor NAVTEX and relevant navigational warnings for real-time updates on safety zones and naval operations, while ensuring that any incidents, observed military activity, or suspicious approaches are immediately reported to the MARINA Overseas Shipping Service.
