Catanduanes Pushes for Lower Travel Costs and Port Upgrades Amid Global Oil Hike

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VIRAC, CATANDUANES — In a proactive move to shield locals from rising fuel costs driven by Middle East tensions, the Provincial Government of Catanduanes has secured a major commitment from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to modernize maritime services and stabilize transportation costs.




Governor Patrick Alain T. Azanza —represented in strategic talks by the provincial leadership—met with PPA General Manager Jay Santiago to fast-track infrastructure projects aimed at making the island province more accessible and resilient to global economic shocks.

The Codon Pier: A Strategic Shortcut

The centerpiece of the meeting was the long-awaited construction of a proper pier in Codon. Currently, travelers often face logistical hurdles, but the proposed port is designed to:

Shorten travel time significantly between Catanduanes and mainland Bicol.

Lower freight and passenger costs by optimizing sea routes.

Boost tourism by providing a more seamless entry point for visitors.

General Manager Santiago confirmed that funding has already been allocated for the Codon project, with the construction timeline set between 2026 and 2028.
Modernizing Gateway Hubs

Beyond new construction, the PPA pledged to upgrade existing facilities to handle higher traffic and provide better service:

Port of Virac & Port of San Andres: Comprehensive modernization of facilities and docking areas.

Port of Tabaco: Improvement of passenger terminals specifically to benefit Catandunganons transitioning through the Albay hub.
Enhanced Security and Biosecurity

To protect the province’s local industries and public safety, the PPA authorized two key operational changes at the Virac and San Andres ports:

Veterinary Inspection Desks: Dedicated spaces for the Provincial Veterinary Office to tighten biosecurity and monitor incoming/outgoing livestock and cargo.

CCTV Integration: Authorization to install high-definition video cameras in designated areas to monitor passenger flow and secure shipments.

Fuel Crisis Contingency: Subsidy Vouchers

Recognizing the volatility of the ongoing Middle East conflict, the provincial government proposed a subsidy voucher system. If global oil prices cause sea fares to spike to unaffordable levels, these vouchers would be deployed to support essential travelers, ensuring that students, patients, and workers are not stranded by rising costs.


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