The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is stepping up its efforts to champion sustainability and innovation in the maritime industry, focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of ports across the ASEAN region.
This commitment was the centerpiece of the seminar Realizing Carbon Neutral Ports in the ASEAN Region, held from November 28 to 29 in Manila, where stakeholders discussed strategies and innovations to drive greener port operations across the region.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago underscored the evolving role of ports amid global environmental challenges.
“Ports must not only facilitate commerce but also become beacons of sustainability, innovation, and resilience,” Santiago said.
“This seminar comes at a pivotal opportunity. We are presented with an opportunity to exchange knowledge, explore solutions, and forge partnerships that will redefine how ports across the ASEAN region operate.”
The seminar emphasized initiatives such as port modernization programs, energy-efficient technologies, and the adoption of digital systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Santiago acknowledged the progress achieved but stressed the importance of further collaboration and alignment with global sustainability frameworks to reach carbon neutrality.
Atty. Hiyasmin Delos Santos, PPA’s Department Manager for Port Operations and Services, detailed ongoing decarbonization efforts in Philippine ports.
These initiatives align with the country’s 2021 Nationally Determined Contributions commitment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which aims for a 75 percent reduction and avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions from 2020 to 2030.
The PPA’s green ports initiatives include:
• Shore-Based Power Supply or Cold Ironing to cut ship emissions while docked.
• Installation of solar-powered navigational buoys and LED lighting in terminals and offices.
• Mandatory tree planting programs, resulting in nearly 12.3 million trees planted as of November 2024.
• Digitalization efforts to streamline operations and reduce emissions.
Key international gateways like the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) and Manila South Harbor (MSH) are leading decarbonization projects.
MICT targets a 26 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per container move by 2030 and aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. Meanwhile, MSH is set to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, with an interim goal of 29 percent carbon reduction by 2030.
These facilities are leveraging renewable energy, hybrid-powered cranes, and digital innovations like the Terminal Appointment and Booking System to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
Delos Santos also pointed to broader opportunities for the country, including offshore wind development, renewable energy investments, and initiatives under the Comprehensive Roadmap for Electric Vehicles, all aligned with the Philippine Energy Plan for 2023 – 2050.
The seminar featured international and regional partners such as the ASEAN Secretariat, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, and the Asian Development Bank. Discussions centered on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, integrating renewable energy, and utilizing innovative technologies to transform ports into sustainable hubs.
“Let us seize this moment to make meaningful progress — progress that will benefit not only our generation but also the generations to come,” Santiago said.
Photo credit: PPA. PPA General Manager Jay Santiago (center).
