TIEZA, DOT, and CCP team up to build Manila Cruise Port

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) formally signed on October 10, 2017 a Memorandum of Agreement for the formulation of a feasibility study and master plan for the development and operation of a Cruise Port within the CCP area.

This marks the beginning of increasing international port calls in the country and the promotion of the Philippines as a cruise destination for international cruise lines.

With the implementation of the National Cruise Tourism Development Strategy (NCTDS), TIEZA has been designated by the DOT as the lead agency responsible in the construction and development of the cruise-dedicated port in Manila and in other priority ports in the country to harness the potential of cruise tourism as an emerging tourism product and vital engine for tourism growth.

The agency aims to develop a cruise port which is accessible to major tourist attractions in Metro Manila and its environs. TIEZA General Manager/Chief Operating Officer Pocholo Paragas envisions a state-of-the-art cruise port which will feature a seafood market as well as various concessions.

The conduct of the feasibility study and master plan will pave way to meet increasing tourism demands, to attract tourism investments, and to upgrade tourism product and service. Thus, the need to build cruise ports and facilities, as well as support infrastructure.

According to the DOT, international cruise calls to the Philippines have been growing at an average rate of 27.8% over the past years, with 56 calls in 2014, 70 calls in 2015, and 72 calls in 2016. This year, the DOT is expecting to record more than 100 port calls, primarily due to the international cruise line Star Cruises’ Superstar Virgo having made Manila its home port on March 19 to May 23, cruising from Manila-Laoag-TaiwanHong Kong.

DOT is confident that more international cruise operators will be committed to come in the country bringing in more cruise passengers with the construction of the Manila Cruise Port Terminal.

The Philippines is an emerging exotic destination, with more than 7,000 islands waiting to be explored through leisure cruising. Now is the time to build more cruise ports for more people to come visit and experience the Philippines.