Manila: The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is upgrading port infrastructure and strengthening emergency protocols to keep ports operational and serving as lifelines during typhoons, earthquakes, and other disasters.
According to Philippines News Agency, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago stated that the agency is incorporating climate- and disaster-resilient measures into the design and construction of port facilities, particularly in areas exposed to natural calamities such as earthquakes, liquefaction, typhoons, storm surges, wave action, and sea-level rise. Santiago emphasized the critical role of ports during disasters as conduits for essential supplies like food, fuel, medical supplies, and relief goods.
The structural upgrades involve increasing pavement and deck capacities from 500 pounds per square foot to 750 pounds per square foot. Major ports handling ship-to-shore cranes may be designed for capacities up to 1,000 pounds per square foot. Selected piers and wharves are being elevated to provide greater protection against coastal hazards.
Breakwaters are being enhanced or constructed in ports including Abra de Ilog and Nasugbu, with higher crest elevations. Other measures include reinforced concrete wharf piers, deflector walls in areas prone to wave overtopping, and rock causeways and retaining structures tailored to individual port conditions.
The PPA follows the National Structural Code of the Philippines in the analysis and design of port infrastructure, considering seismic and wind loads. Beyond physical infrastructure, PPA's Port Management Offices implement emergency response protocols under the PPA Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Manual, coordinating with relevant authorities and maintaining Patient Transport Vehicles on standby.
These measures are supported by Memorandum Circular No. 15-2018, mandating the implementation of the Public Service Continuity Plan to maintain essential port services during disasters. Santiago highlighted the importance of preparedness, stating the necessity for facilities, people, and systems to be ready for emergencies.
The PPA continues to conduct drills and scenario-based exercises to test readiness. The Philippines' top ranking in the 2024 WorldRiskIndex underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness for critical infrastructure like ports.
