The provincial government of Oriental Mindoro has signed an economically-vital agreement to establish a cruise ship port in Puerto Galera, a famous tourism spot in the country.

The agreement, signed by Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor, Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Santiago, and private sector representative Jolly Ting, paves the way for the construction of a dedicated cruise terminal in the popular beach destination.

The P706.05 million project, a milestone in the country’s ambitious cruise tourism expansion plans, is expected to accommodate between 2,500 to 3,000 international tourists per vessel arrival, according to Governor Dolor’s announcement.

“This cruise port will serve as a new gateway for tourism in the province,” Dolor said in his social media statement, citing Puerto Galera’s reputation as the “Heart of Asia” for its natural attractions and tourism potential.

The development joins a network of cruise terminals being established across the Philippine archipelago, including completed facilities in Siargao and ongoing projects in Aklan, Coron, and Camiguin, as the country positions itself as a major cruise tourism destination in Asia.

Puerto Galera Mayor Rocky Ilagan has expressed support for the project, which is scheduled to include a rock causeway, reinforced concrete trestle, and pier facilities.

The project’s construction timeline is set at 780 calendar days from the commencement notice.

Photos: courtesy of Sunhero and Gov. Bonz Dolor’s FB page