29 NOVEMBER 2024 — The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has reaffirmed its dedication to sustainability and innovation in the maritime sector by reducing the carbon footprint of ports as restated in a seminar on Realizing Carbon Neutral Ports in the ASEAN Region on November 28 to 29, 2024 in Manila with key industry players, policy makers, and sustainability advocates discussed actionable strategies and innovations for greener port operations across the region.
In his opening remarks, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago underscored the urgent need for ports to evolve beyond their traditional roles as facilitators of trade.
"Ports must not only facilitate commerce but also become beacons of sustainability, innovation, and resilience," GM 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 PPA highlighted its ongoing initiatives, including port modernization programs, energy-efficient technologies, and the adoption of digital systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. GM Santiago acknowledged that while significant progress has been made, further collaboration and alignment with global sustainability frameworks are essential to achieve carbon neutrality.
During the seminar, Atty. Hiyasmin Delos Santos, PPA’s Department Manager for Port Operations and Services, outlined the decarbonization efforts underway in the Philippine ports, emphasizing the country’s commitment under the 2021 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) commitment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The Philippines has pledged a projected 75% greenhouse gas emissions reduction and avoidance from 2020 to 2030, with significant contributions from the transport and energy sectors.
Atty. Delos Santos detailed PPA’s Green Ports or Decarbonization initiatives, including:
• Provision of Shore-Based Power Supply (SBPS) or Cold Ironing to reduce ship emissions while docked.
• Installation of Solar-powered navigational buoys and LED lighting systems in terminals and offices.
• Mandatory tree planting and establishment of carbon sink areas, contributing to nearly 12.3 million trees planted as of November 2024.
• Digitalization efforts for streamlined, paperless port operations to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
Major international gateways like the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) and Manila South Harbor (MSH) are spearheading decarbonization projects. MICT, for instance, targets a 26% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per container move by 2030, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. South Harbor, on the other hand, is set to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 with an intermediate target of 29% carbon reduction by 2030. Both facilities are investing in renewable energy, hybrid-powered cranes, and digital innovations like the Terminal Appointment and Booking System (TABS) to improve efficiency and lower emissions.
Atty. Delos Santos also highlighted broader national opportunities, including offshore wind development, renewable energy investments, and the Comprehensive Roadmap for Electric Vehicles. These align with the Philippine Energy Plan for 2023–2050, which supports transitioning to reliable, resilient, and clean energy systems.
International and regional partners, including the ASEAN Secretariat, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), shared their expertise during the said seminar. Discussions focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, integrating renewable energy, and leveraging 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 urged participants as he closed his address.
Through this initiative, the PPA strengthens its commitment to addressing climate change and ensuring that the Philippines remains a leader in green maritime innovations within the ASEAN region.
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