The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) today announced the resumption of partial operations at the Port of General Santos following the completion of initial structural inspections and engineering assessments conducted after the recent earthquake that affected parts of Mindanao.
Based on the findings of the PPA Engineering Office, the 201-linear meter Rail-Mounted Gantry (RMG) Wharf has been determined to be structurally sound and capable of safely accommodating regular vessel traffic and cargo operations. Accordingly, port operations will resume using the RMG Wharf, subject to operational controls and safety protocols.
The reopening is partial in nature and does not yet signify the restoration of full port operations. As a precautionary measure, the damaged portions of the New Wharf Expansion will remain under controlled access, while the Eastern Wharf and Western Wharf shall remain closed pending repair works and further structural evaluation.
In addition, the North Gate Weigh Bridge sustained severe structural damage and will remain out of service. Appropriate traffic management measures and alternative access arrangements are being implemented to ensure the continued movement of cargo while maintaining safety within the port premises. The Main Gate shall serve as the temporary access point for port users.
Vessels currently at anchorage will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis once logistical preparations are completed. Shipping lines and vessel operators are likewise advised to ensure cargo readiness to facilitate faster vessel turnaround and sustain the efficient flow of cargoes through the port.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago emphasized that the phased reopening balances the need to restore economic activity while ensuring the safety of all port users.
“While we are gradually restoring operations at the Port of General Santos, public safety remains the PPA’s top priority. The reopening of the RMG Wharf is based on the thorough assessment conducted by our engineers to ensure that it is safe for use. At the same time, inspections and necessary repair works on other port facilities are ongoing so that full operations can be restored at the soonest possible time without compromising safety,” GM Santiago said.
The resumption of operations follows earlier contingency measures implemented by the PPA, including the designation of the Port of Malalag in Davao del Sur as an alternative port to ensure the continued movement of cargoes and essential goods while assessments at the Port of General Santos were underway.
The PPA will continue to monitor the condition of all port facilities and undertake the necessary rehabilitation and repair works. Full resumption of operations in all areas will be announced once it is determined safe and appropriate to do so.
