THE vibrant tourism industry of Ilocos Norte is expected to spring back from the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic through the transport initiatives of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), including the ongoing expansion of the Port of Currimao.

In his inspection of the seaport on Thursday, February 24, 2022, DOTr Secretary Art Tugade said the DOTr and PPA have set their sights on furthering the development of the port, which is expected to accommodate more cruise ships, and boost Ilocos Region’s tourism industry and attract investors.

The DOTr and the PPA have completed the port’s Operations Building, which is set to be the center of operations of the PPA Port Management Office – North Luzon from its previous office in San Fernando, La Union.

The PPA likewise started with the construction of the port’s law enforcement building that will house the offices of maritime law enforcement agencies, such as the PPA Port Police, and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), as well as the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Meanwhile, ongoing works for the port include its expansion by 1.8 hectares, slated to start within the first quarter of 2022.

Before the expansion works at the Port of Currimao, cruise ships had to use pontoons and tenders to unload passengers and tourists.

Situated on the southwest part of Ilocos Norte and facing the South China Sea, the Port of Currimao is expected to welcome more cruise ships in Luzon and bring tourists to various cultural heritage sites in the province of Ilocos Norte.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jun I. Legaspi