The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Heidi Nicodemus
For Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) general manager Jay Santiago, spreading love to passengers and port workers through various activities is the epitome of service being provided to the public by the agency.
This mindset was born during this year’s celebration of Valentine’s Day as the PPA, through its Port Management Offices (PMOs) nationwide, rolled out a series of activities aimed at spreading joy, appreciation and wellness among passengers, port workers and employees across the islands.
GM Santiago had emphasized that beyond infrastructure and operations, the agency remains committed to initiatives that strengthen connections within port communities.
“At PPA, it is important to us that our ports serve not only as gateways for travel and trade, but also as spaces of care and connection. Through our various programs, we aim to express our appreciation to our passengers and personnel who continue to support our services,” he cited.
The Authority’s initiatives highlighted its continued commitment to fostering a people-centered port environment by creating meaningful experiences for port users while promoting employee engagement and community participation across its ports.
Several PMOs organized Valentine-themed activities such as the installation of photo booths and activity stations at Passenger Terminal Buildings (PTBs), serenades for arriving passengers, distribution of treats and tokens and interactive booths designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in ports during the celebration.
Other ports conducted wellness- and community-centered programs, including fun runs, thanksgiving masses, creative activities and health-related initiatives such as blood donation drives, encouraging both employees and port stakeholders to take part in activities that promote compassion, gratitude, and well-being.
Employee-focused programs were likewise held in various PMOs, featuring appreciation activities, themed celebrations, and engagement initiatives aimed at strengthening camaraderie among port personnel who continue to ensure the smooth and safe movement of passengers and cargo nationwide.
Noting the success of these activities, Santiago has decided to pursue them not only during special occasions but conduct them as an ‘everyday-part-of-business’ that reflect PPA’s commitment to genuine public service.
“Through these continuing endeavor, we affirm our promise to promote a safe, inclusive, and passenger-friendly port environment as we avow our role not only as a gateway for trade and travel, but also as a partner in community-building and public service,” PPA’s top executive stressed.