07 JULY 2025 — The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) starts its 51st Founding Anniversary this week with a series of events that underscore its commitment to nation-building and service excellence. With the theme “Sustaining the Legacy, Strengthening the Nation,” this year’s celebration pays tribute to over five decades of steering the country’s port operations towards growth and global competitiveness.

The celebration officially kicked off during the Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, July 7, led by PPA General Manager Jay Santiago at the PPA Head Office in Manila. “This milestone is more than just a number, it is a testament to over five decades of commitment, innovation, and nation-building through efficient and inclusive port management,” GM Santiago said in his opening speech. 

“This milestone is more than just a number—it is a testament to over five decades of commitment, innovation, and nation-building through efficient and inclusive port management,” GM Santiago said. “I would like to thank all the port managers from various Port Management Offices (PMOs) who made the effort to come and participate in our bazaar, which is part of the Philippine Ports Authority’s 51st anniversary celebration. I also extend my gratitude to all the department managers and everyone who helped make this simple yet meaningful celebration possible,” he added.

The event began with a doxology by the Manila Science High School Chorale, followed by the official opening of the Anniversary Bazaar, which showcases products from various merchants and PMOs. 

An intermission performance by the Pepe A Mascot added a lively touch in the program, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by GM Santiago, Assistant General Manager for Operations Mark Palomar, AGM for Engineering James Gantalao, and AGM for Finance, Legal, and Administration Elmer Nonnatus Cadano, and Special Assistant to the Corporate Head II Eric Dimaculangan. The morning program concluded on a festive note with a serenade that further uplifted the celebratory spirit.

Established on July 11, 1974, through Presidential Decree (PD) No. 505, the PPA serves as the primary government agency tasked with integrating and coordinating the planning, development, financing, and operation of ports throughout the archipelago. For more than half a century, the agency has been instrumental in trade, tourism, and economic progress by ensuring efficient port services nationwide.

Throughout the week, employees and stakeholders can look forward to a range of activities designed to foster camaraderie, wellness, and social responsibility:

• July 7-11: Anniversary Bazaar at the PPA Head Office grounds, showcasing local goods and treats for employees and guests. 

• July 7 Bloodletting Activity – A partnership with the Philippine Children's Medical Center to promote voluntary blood donation.

• July 8-9: Annual Medical and Physical Examination (AMPE) for PPA Head Office personnel, underscoring the agency’s commitment to employee health.

• July 10: Donation Drive at GRACES (Golden Reception and Action Center for the Elderly and other Special Cases) in Quezon City, under the PPA Head Office  Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, alongside employee wellness day activities.

• July 11: Culminating activities including the much-anticipated PPA FUNtaRUN, the Tanghalan sa Pantalan, and the Conferment of Employee Awards, honoring dedicated personnel who exemplify excellence in public service.

Through these activities, the PPA continues to uphold its legacy of not only managing and developing the country’s ports but also nurturing a culture of unity, well-being, and shared purpose among its workforce, truly sustaining the legacy, and strengthening the nation.

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