Manila: The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) reported a significant revenue increase, hitting PHP16.34 billion in the first half of 2026. This spike in revenue is attributed to a consistent rise in cargo volumes, container traffic, and cruise ship calls.
According to Philippines News Agency, PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago stated that the revenue from January to June surpassed the agency's target by 7.61 percent, equating to PHP1.16 billion more than anticipated. It also marked an 11.31 percent increase compared to the PHP14.68 billion recorded during the same period last year. Santiago highlighted that these results are indicative of the ongoing implementation of strategies focused on enhancing operational performance, modernizing infrastructure, optimizing revenue, and improving port capacity.
PPA managed 154.03 million metric tons of cargo from January to June, showing a 3.08 percent increase from the 149.42 million metric tons recorded in the same period in 2025. Container traffic also grew, with ports handling 4.30 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), a 2.65 percent rise from last year's 4.19 million TEUs. This growth was supported by increased shipments of key commodities, including crude minerals and metalliferous ores at various Port Management Offices (PMOs).
Santiago emphasized the importance of an efficient port system in supporting supply chains and industries nationwide, noting that enhancements in efficiency, capacity, and connectivity help businesses move products faster and bolster the country's competitiveness.
In cruise tourism, PPA ports recorded 70 cruise ship calls in the first half of 2026, a 4.48 percent increase from the previous year. These vessels brought 165,340 cruise passengers to various destinations, creating opportunities for local tourism enterprises through activities such as shore excursions, cultural tours, and shopping.
Passenger traffic also remained robust, with PPA recording 45.69 million passenger movements during the six-month period. The PPA expressed its commitment to continue pursuing infrastructure modernization and operational efficiency across its port network.
