The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has terminated the contract for the Zamboanga Port Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) project, citing outdated delays, design, and policy priorities, according to PPA assistant general manager for engineering James Gantalao.
The decision followed mounting calls for transparency from the public via social media, prompting a formal review. “Unfortunately, we had to terminate the contract because what we envisioned back in 2021 no longer meets current operational requirements,” said Gantalao.
The PTB project, once envisioned as one of Mindanao’s largest and most modern terminals with a 3,500-passenger capacity, faced numerous setbacks. Challenges included design limitations, adverse weather, site-specific constraints, and delays exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused material price surges and manpower shortages.
Despite repeated notices, the contractor’s progress remained sluggish. While reporting 56 percent physical completion, the contractor had only been paid 18 percent of the contract value. Gantalao clarified that PPA policy prohibits advance or mobilization payments, ensuring remaining funds are safeguarded for future completion efforts.
“This policy protects public interest and guarantees that resources are preserved for a facility that truly serves the region’s needs,” Gantalao explained.
Zamboanga Port is a critical transport and trade hub connecting the Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and neighboring ASEAN countries. Given its strategic role, PPA stressed the need for a design that meets evolving operational and safety standards.
In light of recent concerns raised in the Senate, including ticket scalping issues flagged by Senator Raffy Tulfo, the PPA reiterated its limited jurisdiction over ticketing. However, it pledged continued coordination with MARINA, the Philippine Coast Guard, and local government units to address broader concerns affecting port users.
