PPA turns over P30-M port facility to Pilar, Surigao Norte
By SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — One of the Philippines’ premier game-fishing destinations received a significant infrastructure boost this week as the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) handed over a newly completed port facility to local officials of Pilar, Siargao Island in the province of Surigao del Norte.
In a ceremony held on Wednesday, December 10, the national government turned over the P30-million Pilar Port Development Project to Mayor Jeasa C. Gonzalez.
This event marked a significant milestone for the municipality’s connectivity and tourism ambitions.
Froilan U. Caturla, port manager of the Port Management Office (PMO) in Surigao, represented the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) during the turnover, alongside Edward Reyes of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
Caturla said the new facility features a 378-square-meter reinforced concrete wharf, along with a stair landing and jump-off concrete ramp designed to accommodate various watercraft. Strategically positioned in a well-protected harbour with waters reaching depths of eight meters, the port is expected to handle larger vessels and improve year-round operations.
“The project falls under the DOTr’s ‘Social Reform-Related Port Projects’ program, implemented through the PPA to enhance connectivity and access for communities, particularly in tourism destinations and remote areas. Local officials had formally requested the infrastructure improvement from the national government,” Caturla added.
Donoso, a resident of Pilar, is proud of the opening of the new port facility. “The facility isn’t just a structure of concrete and steel; it’s a vital lifeline and a beacon of hope for our community, as this will boost tourism and open more livelihood opportunities.”
“For too long, we have dreamed of a modern, safe, and efficient gateway that truly serves the needs of our people and local economy,” he added.
Pilar, known among sport fishing enthusiasts as a top game-fishing haven in the region, stands to benefit significantly from improved maritime access.
The new port infrastructure is expected to facilitate not only tourism growth but also boost local commerce and provide residents with better transportation links to neighbouring islands and the mainland.
The completion of the port project represents a substantial investment in Siargao Island’s continuing development as a world-class tourism destination, complementing the place’s reputation for surfing and marine recreation. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from PPA-PMO Surigao)
