BCDA launches Poro Point seaport modernization preparations

MANILA — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has begun preparations for the modernization of the Poro Point Seaport in La Union after signing a consultancy agreement that will pave the way for the project’s development under the government’s public-private partnership (PPP) program.

The state-run agency said the agreement covers project preparation and transaction advisory services for the planned redevelopment of the existing bulk and break-bulk terminal into a fully containerized international seaport.

BCDA signed the contract with the Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines and the joint venture of Isla Lipana & Co. and Cabrera & Co., according to a statement released by the agency.

The consultancy contract is valued at P68.08 million and is funded through the PPP Center’s Project Development and Monitoring Facility under an Asian Development Bank loan, BCDA said.

The consultant will conduct market assessments, feasibility studies, project structuring, government approval support, bidding assistance and post-award advisory services over a 655-day implementation period.

“The milestone reflects BCDA’s commitment to building infrastructure that connects markets, attracts investments, and creates more opportunities for Filipinos,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said in the statement.

BCDA said the modernization project aims to equip Poro Point Seaport with container terminal facilities, automated operating systems, modern cargo-handling equipment and upgraded logistics infrastructure to improve cargo movement, reduce vessel turnaround time and strengthen supply chain efficiency.

The agency said the project’s final cost will be determined after the completion of feasibility and project preparation activities, when the scope and commercial structure have been finalized.

Construction is targeted to begin in the second quarter of 2027, with completion expected by 2029, according to BCDA.

The agency said the project supports the government’s Luzon Economic Corridor, which seeks to improve transport and logistics links among Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas through coordinated infrastructure investments.

BCDA said the planned modernization also aligns with the Marcos administration’s Build Better More infrastructure program and is intended to strengthen Northern Luzon’s role in domestic and international trade.

The signing ceremony was attended by PPP Center Executive Director Rizza Blanco Latorre, Deputy Executive Director Eleazar E. Ricote, PwC Philippines Managing Partner Mary Jade T. Roxas-Divinagracia, and Poro Point Management Corp. President and CEO Servillano C. Flores Jr., the agency said.

The project remains in its preparatory stage and will undergo succeeding feasibility, structuring and procurement processes before implementation under the PPP framework.