THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is steadily advancing in the decarbonization of ports, aligning with International Maritime Organization (IMO) greenhouse gas reduction targets for 2030 and 2040 and net-zero emissions by 2050.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago highlighted the authority’s commitment to environmental sustainability by gradually adopting clean energy in terminal operations.
As the global shipping industry transitions to liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessels and cleaner fuels, PPA works closely with the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). A Technical Working Group in Marina, alongside PPA and PCG, ensures compliance of local and international ships with IMO regulations on green ships.
“We have been migrating our lighting facilities to solar power, with 70-80 percent of terminal lighting now solar-powered,” Santiago said.
Plans are underway to expand solar energy usage at South Harbor this year, promoting ecologically sound operations and reducing single-use plastics in terminals.
Since 2020, stakeholders have planted 3 million seedlings for tree-planting initiatives. PPA collaborates with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to identify suitable locations for greening projects within port areas.
PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago. FILE PHOTO
“We aim to convert waste to energy within the port premises,” Santiago said.
PPA maintains coordination with LNG operators such as First Gen in Batangas, Meralco PowerGen Corp., Aboitiz Power Corp., and San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. in Ilijan, Batangas, ensuring safe operations compliant with environmental and IMO regulations.
The Department of Energy plans to expand LNG facility capacities to support maritime transport, viewing LNG as a transitional fuel. This effort aligns with the industry’s adoption of carbon-neutral and LNG-powered container vessels.
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