By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — The government is moving forward with a massive P5-billion cruise ship terminal in Entertainment City as part of efforts to turn Manila into a major international cruise hub in Asia.
The planned terminal, to be developed by the Philippine Ports Authority in partnership with the Philippine Reclamation Authority, will rise near the end of Aseana Avenue — just minutes away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Officials said construction is expected to begin within the year, with completion targeted before the end of the administration of Bongbong Marcos.
The future cruise hub will stand beside major entertainment and gaming destinations such as Solaire Resort Entertainment City, City of Dreams Manila, and Okada Manila, positioning the Bay Area as a key tourism and commercial gateway.
According to Jay Santiago, the strategic location near the airport would allow Manila to become a “home port” for international cruise operators — meaning travelers can begin and end cruise vacations directly from the Philippine capital.
Initial plans show the terminal can accommodate up to four cruise vessels simultaneously. The project will also include a wide navigational channel designed to meet international maritime safety standards.
Authorities said the cruise complex will draw inspiration from Hong Kong’s famous Ocean Terminal, integrating shopping, dining, leisure, and tourism facilities into one waterfront destination.
Tourism officials believe the project could significantly boost visitor arrivals as the Philippines strengthens its position in the global cruise industry. Government data showed cruise passenger arrivals reached more than 226,000 in 2025 — a sharp increase from the previous year.
Property analysts also expect the development to revive the struggling condominium and hotel market in Manila’s Bay Area, where vacancy rates remain high following the exit of many Philippine offshore gaming operators.
The new terminal will eventually replace the current setup at Pier 15 in the Port of Manila, where cruise ships presently share docking space with Philippine Coast Guard vessels.
The Department of Tourism continues to market the Philippines aggressively as a premier cruise destination after the country earned international recognition as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination in 2023 and Best Port of Call in 2024.
ia/xf
