The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is optimistic that the expansion works at the Port of Currimao in Ilocos Norte will further bolster the tourism industry and woo investors and entrepreneurs in the Ilocos Region (Region 1).
DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade inspected the construction works at Port Currimao on Thursday, Feb. 24, which can accommodate cruise ships once completed.
"As one of the main gateways in Northern Luzon, the Port of Currimao is expected to welcome more cruise liners in the region and bring tourists to various cultural heritage sites in the provinces of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur," the DPWH said.
"The Port of Currimao is envisioned not only to enhance and address maritime mobility and connectivity in the province, and nearby areas but to serve as a catalyst for socio-economic, tourism, and livelihood opportunities in the Ilocos Region region," it added.
An expansion for the port by another 1.8 hectares is also slated to start within the first quarter of 2022, the DPWH stated.
Further, the establishment of Port of Operations Building (POB) in the area has already been completed and is set to be the center of operations of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Management Office in Northern Luzon.
Construction works have also commenced for the construction of a law enforcement building that will house offices of maritime law enforcement agencies such as the PPA Port Police, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), among others.