VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur – To further boost cruise tourism in the Ilocos Region, various infrastructure projects are being implemented at the Currimao Port in Ilocos Norte and the Salomague Port in Ilocos Sur, according to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
Marieta Odicta, manager of PPA-Port Management Office Northern Luzon, emphasized the significant expansion and modernization projects taking place in the two ports during the second episode of “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” on June 4.
She said, “lyong Currimao Port (Currimao, llocos Norte) ay napakalaki ng ginagawang development ngayon. lyong katatapos lang pong three hectares, may additional na naman na magkabila po na gagawan ng five hectares reclamation. Left and right side po ng port ang ginagawa ring dredging activity para mapalalim natin iyong tubig; para ma-accomodate ang mga mas malalaking vessel to dock at our port facility.”
(The Currimao Port in Ilocos Norte province is currently undergoing significant development. We have recently completed a three-hectare project, with an additional five-hectare reclamation area alongside. Dredging activities are also ongoing on both sides of the port to accommodate larger vessels.)
Odicta added that the PPA has constructed a breakwater, which is nearing completion to protect the port from the impact of strong water waves.
“Ngayon po ay maganda na po ang resulta, maganda na ang impact, nakaka-dock alongside na po ang ating vessels na may 200 meters overall length, nakakadiretso na sa ating port, at dumarami na ang cargo traffic ng Currimao Port,” she added.
(These developments have resulted in a notable increase in cargo traffic and the ability for vessels up to 200 meters in overall length to dock at the Currimao Port.)
Moreover, Salomague Port is now undergoing reclamation work spanning approximately 1.4 hectares to provide more space for vessels and enhance the operational area.
The ongoing implementation of these infrastructure projects aims to enhance the efficiency and capacity of Philippine ports, thereby attracting more cruise vessels to significantly contribute to the development and expansion of the cruise tourism sector within the region.
Earlier, the Ilocos Sur province welcomed 509 passengers from the United States, Europe, and Asia, as well as the crew of the MS Insignia under Oceania Cruises, which docked at the Salomague Port.
The visitors toured the heritage city of Vigan and the municipality of Bantay.
Moreover, the Norwegian Jewel cruise ship docked at the Currimao Port for the second time on February 27, bringing 1,849 visitors who enjoyed the cuisine and magnificent destinations in the towns of Badoc and Paoay, and the cities of Batac and Laoag.
In an online post on February 28, the Provincial Tourism Office of Ilocos Norte reported that Ilocano products such as empanada, tupig, and inabel fabrics were enjoyed by visitors, boosting the sales of local entrepreneurs.
“This successful visit highlights the growing potential of cruise tourism in Ilocos Norte, fostering cultural exchange and providing a much-needed boost to the local economy,” the post stated.
In 2023, Currimao Port welcomed 1,591 tourists while Salomague Port received 928 tourists. (JCR/AMB/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)
