AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is supporting the proposed construction of a P2-billion deepwater port in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro that is expected enhance fish and agricultural trade.
The project, to be implemented by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority, will enable the entry of larger vessels transporting fish and agricultural products to and from Mindoro, Luzon and other markets.
“Ports reduce costs, losses and delays, [from which] food inflation often begins,” Tiu Laurel said, noting that a deepwater port would have a direct and measurable impact on household expenses.
It would help address high food prices and long-standing obstructions to farm-to-market trade, Tiu Laurel pointed out, explaining that cheaper logistics costs lead to more affordable food.
“The Abra de Ilog port will fix logistics bottlenecks and build a more efficient gateway for agricultural trade,” he added.
With its roll on-roll off (Ro-Ro) connection to Batangas, Abra de Ilog is already a maritime gateway, but its limited capacity has held back its economic potential.
Building on recent developments by the Philippine Ports Authority, including port extension, more Ro-Ro ramps, breakwaters and dredging work, the proposed deepwater port seeks to unleash that economic potential.
The deepwater project will consist of a finger pier (a narrow, secondary dock that extends perpendicularly from a main pier), a modern fish market, cold storage and ice plants, warehouses, wastewater treatment facilities, solar power systems and reefer vans, designed with functionality in mind. These facilities are seen to lessen postharvest losses and guarantee compliance with export-grade food safety standards.
The project has the potential to change regional trade flows, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said, projecting that Abra de Ilog could become a cost-effective transshipment hub for fish, meat, poultry, fruits and vegetables, whose farmers struggle with narrow margins and unstable fuel prices.
Fisherfolk and farmers will benefit the most from the project, the DA said.
It is also expected to cut shipping time and reduce congestion at the Batangas port.
Local workers will be needed for the construction of the port and for logistics companies, processors, fuel suppliers and tourism-related enterprises in the long term.
Construction may take about months once approved, said the DA.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wants at least 10 deepwater ports to complete a logistical network that would promote interisland trade, ensure food security, generate jobs, attract investments and boost economic growth, Tiu Laurel said.