The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has restarted partial operations at Makar Port, also known as the Port of General Santos, after completing safety inspections following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Southern Mindanao.
Authorities confirmed that the rail-mounted gantry (RMG) wharf is structurally safe and can accommodate regular cargo and vessel traffic. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that the Department of Transportation and PPA are fast-tracking rehabilitation works, as the port is critical to the local economy and community needs. PPA general manager Jay Santiago explained that the phased reopening aims to restore supply chains and economic activity while ensuring public safety.
Under the current setup, only designated safe areas including the RMG Wharf will operate under strict safety protocols. The Eastern Wharf, Western Wharf, and damaged sections of the New Wharf Expansion remain closed or under controlled access. The north gate weigh bridge sustained severe damage and is temporarily out of service; alternative access routes and traffic management measures are already in place to maintain cargo movement.
Stakeholders such as shipping lines, cargo owners, and truckers are advised to coordinate with PMO SOCSARGEN for updated schedules, access routes, and restrictions. PPA will continue monitoring all facilities and will announce the full resumption of operations once all repairs and assessments are completed.
