Lucena: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday announced that the new passenger terminal building (PTB) at the Port of Lucena in Quezon is set to unlock the province's economic potential and serve as a model for port modernization across the country. Acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez emphasized the significance of the new facility during an inspection alongside President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Santiago, and local officials.
According to Philippines News Agency, the new PTB has significantly increased the port's seating capacity from 607 to 967 and now includes a wider pre-departure area, improved ticketing counters, a nursing room, a prayer room, and a solar panel system. The terminal is set to open next month and aims to enhance the travel experience for both passengers and tourists.
Santiago highlighted that the upgrade is a response to the rising demand for passenger services at one of Southern Luzon's busiest maritime hubs. "Many tourists and passengers travel through Lucena Port - those going to Marinduque and Romblon. We deliberately expanded the terminal to accommodate more passengers and made it more beautiful for our travelers," he stated.
The Port of Lucena plays a vital role as a key maritime hub for passenger and cargo transport in Southern Luzon, serving the provinces of Quezon, Romblon, and Marinduque. The inspection of the upgraded facilities was also attended by Quezon Governor Angelina "Helen" Tan and Lucena Mayor Mark Don Victor Alcala, who expressed their support for the developments at the port.
President Marcos affirmed that the port upgrade is part of the government's initiative to modernize ports and infrastructure, aiming to strengthen regional connectivity, boost tourism and trade, and ensure safer and more convenient travel for Filipinos. "Lucena Port caters to approximately 500,000 travelers every year. That is why we need to upgrade the facilities to help our traveling public so they won't have such a hard time," Marcos said.
