Albay port upgrade designed to boost agri trade

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it is planning a P500-million expansion of the Port of Pantao in Libon, Albay to develop an agricultural logistics hub and help raise the incomes of fisherfolk and farmers in the area.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. said the DA is hoping that the port expansion and associated road improvements can be completed by early 2028 to help spur economic development in the area.

“This will really be a major advantage for Libon once we complete the port expansion, improve the road network, and install the ice plant and other facilities,” Mr. Laurel was quoted as saying in a statement.

Libon is on the western shore of Albay facing Burias Island and southeast of the Ragay Gulf.

The DA said funding for the port expansion and post-harvest facilities is included in the 2026 General Appropriations Act, while additional funds will be proposed in 2027 for the construction of a farm-to-market road to improve connectivity to the port.

Mr. Laurel said he will work with Public Works and Highways Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon to expedite repairs to the road linking the port to the Maharlika Highway.

The DA will also work with the Departments of Public Works and Highways and Transportation, as well as Albay province to support the expected increase in cargo and passenger traffic once the port’s facilities are expanded.

Mr. Laurel said “Better road access and post-harvest facilities such as ice plants and cold storage will allow fishers to bring their catch to more markets and earn more.” — Vonn Andrei E. Villamiel