Leyte Officials Urge PPA to Address Port Congestion Crisis; Propose Additional Ports

Leyte, Philippines – Provincial officials in Leyte are calling on the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to take immediate and decisive action to alleviate the worsening port congestion and limited transport routes between Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The plea comes amidst a growing transportation and logistics crisis severely impacting Eastern Visayas and neighboring regions.

The situation has reached a critical point, causing significant delays and disruptions to the flow of goods and passengers. The bottleneck, primarily focused on the Matnog-Allen route, is creating a ripple effect throughout the supply chain, threatening economic stability and livelihoods.

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Leyte 1st District Board Member Wilson Uy spearheaded the call for urgent intervention, suggesting the opening of additional ports as a crucial step towards resolving the crisis. “We need the Philippine Ports Authority to outline concrete steps to address this escalating problem,” Uy stated, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive solution. “This includes exploring the possibility of opening additional ports and establishing a direct route from Matnog to Leyte.”

Uy highlighted the far-reaching consequences of the delays, stating that the Matnog-Allen route congestion is impacting the entire supply chain. The urgency is heightened by the approaching rainy season and the peak shipping season, which will exacerbate the existing problems. “These measures are urgently needed to mitigate the economic losses affecting not just Region 8, but also suppliers from Mindanao. We need to act before the situation worsens,” he stressed.

Echoing Uy’s concerns, Leyte 3rd District Board Member Chinggay Veloso-Kabigting proposed the opening of ports in the towns of Villaba or Calubian as potential alternative routes for cargo and passengers. “These towns are strategically located and can significantly help decongest existing major ports, while also generating jobs and stimulating local economic activity,” Veloso explained. The strategic positioning of these towns could offer a much-needed relief to the overburdened main routes.

Both board members underscored the need for coordinated efforts and strong political will to implement long-term solutions. They urged the PPA not just to listen to their concerns but to take swift action for the benefit of Eastern Visayas, Mindanao suppliers, and the national economy.

The urgency of the situation is palpable. Businesses are facing mounting losses due to delays, consumers are experiencing shortages, and the overall economic stability of the region hangs in the balance. The public and key stakeholders now await a clear action plan from the Philippine Ports Authority. Failure to act decisively could have devastating consequences for the region and the national economy. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the PPA can effectively address this critical issue and prevent further economic hardship.