Lucena: The new passenger terminal building (PTB) of the Port of Lucena is expected to begin operations in August, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced Tuesday, noting that there will be additional developments to further modernize the port. Following his inspection of the new terminal, Marcos highlighted the project as a major infrastructure upgrade that will strengthen regional connectivity, facilitate trade, and improve sea travel in Southern Luzon.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos affirmed the government's commitment to upgrading transport infrastructure to provide safer, faster, and more convenient travel for passengers. He mentioned that vendors operating at the port will be relocated to the new terminal as part of the transition. 'Kailangan talaga i-upgrade na 'yung ating mga facilities. Kung mayroon tayong magagawa para matulungan ang ating traveling public at hindi sila masyadong mahirapan (We really need to upgrade our facilities. If there is anything we can do to help the traveling public and make their journey more convenient), we will do it,' Marcos added.
The Port of Lucena serves as Southern Luzon's primary roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) gateway, connecting mainland Luzon to Marinduque and neighboring island provinces. In 2023, it handled more than 1.08 million passengers, 220,982 vehicles, 131,811 metric tons of cargo, and 5,968 vessel calls. Passenger and cargo traffic are expected to continue growing over the next decade.
Built to meet the increasing demand, the new PTB features a fully air-conditioned waiting area that can accommodate 1,000 passengers, automated ticketing counters, modern restrooms, upgraded passenger amenities, enhanced ventilation system, and solar panels to support energy-efficient and sustainable port operations. Beyond improving passenger convenience, the project is expected to drive tourism, trade, and economic activity across Calabarzon and Mimaropa regions.
The upgraded terminal will support transport operators, shipping lines, restaurants, retail establishments, and other local businesses while providing a more efficient and welcoming gateway to Lucena City. The modern facility is expected to benefit daily commuters, returning overseas Filipino workers, tourists, business travelers, transport operators, local entrepreneurs, and residents of Quezon, Marinduque, and neighboring provinces by providing a safer, faster, and more comfortable travel experience.
For shipping lines and vessel operators, the upgraded terminal will streamline passenger movement, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction through better facilities and services. The project is also expected to generate broader economic benefits by increasing business opportunities for transport service providers, restaurants, retail establishments, and other enterprises. Improved terminal organization and traffic circulation are likewise expected to ease traffic congestion around the port and make commuting more convenient for the traveling public.
