Terminal of Phl's first 'world-class' seaport opens

MANILA, Philippines - The Manila North Harbor Port, Inc. (MNHPI) formally launched the passenger terminal of a new seaport that can accommodate two to three million passengers yearly.

MNHPI chairman Michael Romero said at the launching event Wednesday that the well-secured complex will "completely erase the image" of the old harbor long considered a haven for criminals.

"The complex is designed to provide passengers with an unforgettable and unparalleled experience and is the first of its kind in the Philippines. Passenger comfort is given utmost attention," Romero said.

The executive said the new 11,600-square meter terminal at Pier 4 at Manila North Harbor now has a highly trained security team and detection devices such as x-ray scanning machines and other passenger facilities such as convenient waiting areas, ticketing floors, shoot booths and 2,000-sq meter parking space.

"The complex aims to elevate the status of Manila North Harbor as the country’s premium seafaring hub comparable to passenger terminals abroad," he added.

Passengers will be charged P35 to P50 terminal fee, which is "way lower" than airport terminal fees of P200 to P500.

Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, meanwhile, hailed the new structure as the country's first "world-class" seaport.

"Ang pormal na pagbubukas ng bago at world-class na North Port Passenger Terminal Complex na ito na patunay na hindi magpapahuli ang Pilipinas pag dating sa moderno at de-kalidad na pasilidad," Abaya said.

He suggested that the image of the North Harbor be enhanced to attract passengers without giving them reason to fear for their security.

"Try to have elementary and high school kids come over and have their field trips here and that way they’ll get a very good impression of North Harbor and see it in a different light," Abaya said.

Romero added that about  P4 billion has so far been poured in by MNHPI, San Miguel Corporation and other partners into the port project.

He said they committed P15 billion to the government for its construction and development. - Camille Diola with PNA