The new and modernized Lucena Port passenger terminal building (PTB) is expected to boost Southern Luzon’s passenger capacity aimed at improving tourism, economic development and maritime transport in the region.
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., along with Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Santiago, inspected the Lucena Port’s PTB ahead of its scheduled opening next month.
With a project cost of PHP153.43 million, the Lucena Port PTB has increased its seating capacity to 967 from its previous 607 passenger capacity. It is powered by a 100 kw capacity solar panel system. Amenities in the 2,962 square meter PTB include security/inspection area, passenger safety room, concourse area, pre-departure/waiting area, terminal fee and ticket booths.
“Lucena Port [caters to] approximately 500,000 travelers every year. Kaya’t kailangan na i-upgrade ‘yung mga facilities para matulungan natin ang ating traveling public para hindi sila masyado mahirapan,” President Marcos, Jr. said.
“I hope that this will be sufficient at least for the future. But of course, we will continue to develop [the port],” the President added.
As a key maritime hub for passenger and cargo transport in Southern Luzon, the Port of Lucena serves the provinces of Quezon, Romblon and Marinduque.
This will significantly benefit the province as the port can now accommodate more tourists and passengers, providing them with comfortable travel experience.
Secretary Lopez said the port’s PTB upgrade will unlock the economic potential of Quezon Province.
Secretary Lopez said the Lucena Port PTB should become a template for all ports development in the country to help improve the local economy and boost tourism in the provinces.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago for his part said the passenger terminal building upgrade will address the rising demand for passenger services.
“Marami ang mga bumabiyahe na turista at pasahero rito sa Lucena Port—yung mga papuntang Marinduque at Romblon. Sadya nating nilakihan ang terminal para mas marami tayong ma-accommodate at mas pinaganda natin ito para sa ating mga biyahero,” GM Santiago said.
Quezon Governor Angeline “Helen” Tan and Lucena Mayor Mark Don Victor Alcala who also joined the inspection welcomed the new developments in Port of Lucena.
