Poro Point Seaport upgrade eyes bigger role in Northern Luzon trade

BCDA awards ₱68.08-million contract to prepare La Union port modernization, paving the way for an international container hub.

Northern Luzon’s bid to strengthen its position as a trade and logistics hub took a step forward after the Bases Conversion and Development Authority awarded a ₱68.08-million contract to prepare the modernization of Poro Point Seaport in La Union.

The contract covers project preparation and transaction advisory services needed to pave the way for private sector participation in redeveloping the port into a fully containerized international seaport. The work includes market studies, feasibility assessments, project structuring, and support for the government’s bidding process.

Once completed, the upgraded port is expected to improve cargo handling, shorten vessel turnaround times, and boost the efficiency of supply chains serving Northern Luzon. That could make it easier for manufacturers, exporters, importers, and other businesses to move goods while helping attract fresh investments to the region.

The project also supports the Luzon Economic Corridor, which aims to strengthen connectivity among Subic, Clark, Manila, and Batangas through coordinated investments in transport, logistics, energy, and digital infrastructure. A more capable Poro Point Seaport could further expand Northern Luzon’s role in domestic and international trade while creating more economic opportunities for businesses and workers.

Project preparation will run for 655 days, with construction targeted to begin in the second quarter of 2027 and completion expected by 2029. The total cost of the port modernization will be determined once the project preparation phase is completed.

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