The Department of Transportation (DOTr) through Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is expanding the Port of Currimao in Ilocos Norte to accommodate more cruise ships and boost the region’s tourism industry.
During the inspection of the seaport last week, DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade said the development of the port will boost Ilocos Region’s tourism industry and will attract investors.
The DOTr and the PPA have completed the port’s operations building, which is set to be the center of operations of the PPA Port Management Office – North Luzon from its previous office in San Fernando, La Union.
The PPA has started the construction of the port’s law enforcement building that will house the offices of maritime law enforcement agencies, such as the PPA Port Police, and Philippine Coast Guard as well as the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
The DOTr said ongoing works on the port include its expansion by 1.8 hectares, slated to start within the first quarter of 2022.
Prior the expansion works at the Port of Currimao, cruise ships had to use pontoon and tenders to unload passengers and tourists.
Situated on the southwest part of Ilocos Norte and facing the South China Sea, the Port of Currimao is expected to welcome more cruise ships in Luzon and bring tourists to various cultural heritage sites in the province of Ilocos Norte.
