Plans for a new cruise terminal in Manila are progressing towards construction, with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) aiming to finalize a long-term lease by the end of 2026. Estimated at P5 billion (approximately USD 82 million), this facility is set to serve as a homeport for cruise ships and cater to the growing cruise market in the Philippines.
The PPA is in discussions for a 25-year lease with the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), which could be extended for another 25 years. General Manager Jay Santiago stated that the objective is to conclude terms and begin preparations by the year’s end. The terminal will be situated at the end of Aseana Avenue, approximately 10 minutes from Ninoy Aquino Airport, close to major entertainment and hotel areas.
Preliminary designs indicate that the terminal will accommodate up to four cruise ships at once, featuring a navigational channel that is one kilometer wide and 15 kilometers long. The PRA will also consider cruise-ship navigation needs for future reclamation efforts.
The terminal concept is inspired by Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal, integrating cruise processing with various passenger amenities such as dining, retail, and leisure facilities. This design aims to create a welcoming destination within the port area, minimizing the need for passengers to leave for tourism activities.
The project seeks to move cruise operations from the current shared facilities at Pier 15, where cruise ships compete for space alongside other port operations. Establishing a dedicated international cruise terminal has been identified as crucial for enhancing Manila’s cruise tourism infrastructure and providing an improved arrival experience for international travelers.
Recent statistics indicate a significant increase in cruise visitors to the Philippines, with 226,247 arrivals in 2025, up from 150,903 in 2024. As cruise operators, including major international and Asian brands, plan to operate in the Philippines in 2026, the demand for specialized passenger infrastructure is expected to rise.
The Manila terminal project is part of a broader strategy to enhance the Philippines’ presence in the regional cruise market. Alongside Manila, the PPA is developing cruise-capable infrastructure at other key ports such as Currimao, Salomague, Coron, and Puerto Princesa, among others. This initiative represents a vital step in establishing Manila as a key hub for international cruise operations, provided the leasing and construction timelines proceed as planned.
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