Oriental Port and Allied Services Corp. (Opascor) reaffirmed its commitment to strategic collaboration and operational resilience during its Partners’ Appreciation Night, honoring the critical role of its network of shipping lines, logistics providers, government agencies, and business partners in navigating ongoing global economic challenges.
Opascor Chairman Tomas Riveral acknowledged the difficult terrain facing the maritime industry, from higher financing costs and logistical disruptions to declining cargo volumes and increased operational pressures. Opascor is the exclusive cargo handling operator at the Cebu International Port.
“Without your unwavering support, Opascor wouldn’t be where it is today,” Riveral told a gathering of port stakeholders. “Your trust is something we will always continue to treasure in our hearts.”
The event was held amid a backdrop of industry volatility, with Opascor disclosing that it lost two shipping lines in the second half of 2024. Additionally, a major volume provider significantly scaled down operations due to financial reverses beyond their control.
Despite these setbacks, Riveral emphasized that the port operator has remained resilient thanks to long-standing partnerships.
He recognized several shipping lines, particularly Evergreen International Shipping Agency, integrated logistics provider Fujitrans Corporations, and container shipping firm SITC, for their commitment and for significantly increasing their cargo volumes during the year.
“Some of you even increased your volumes when others were retreating,” he said. “This is not just a number on a chart; it’s a signal of enduring trust, and we’re incredibly thankful for that.”
The chairman also extended appreciation to government entities, including the Cebu Port Authority, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Immigration, among others, for their regulatory support and collaboration.
He reserved special praise for the new customs collector, lawyer Felipe Geoffrey K. De Vera IV, describing his leadership as “reformative and encouraging.”
“His openness and gesture of determination to help the port of Cebu grow have inspired businessmen at a time when confidence is critical,” Riveral added.
A key announcement during the night was Opascor’s acquisition of new dredging equipment set to become operational next month.
Riveral said the equipment will expand ground capacity and improve cargo handling throughput, aiming to enhance operational efficiency to approximately 11 meters, a metric indicating ground movement productivity.
“This new investment signals our commitment to technology, speed, and service,” he said. “We believe that boosting efficiency is not just about infrastructure; it’s about serving our partners better.”
The appreciation night also spotlighted Opascor’s international ambitions, with the attendance of the delegation from Long An Port, Opascor’s sister port from Vietnam, underscoring growing regional maritime ties.
“Despite the thousand-mile distance, they are here with us,” Riveral said. “It shows our commitment to bring the port of Cebu to the other corners of the world and to build bridges beyond our shores.”
Riveral extended his gratitude to importers, exporters, logistics providers, customs brokers, freight forwarders, and truckers, acknowledging their critical role in sustaining trade flow despite the pressures of a “chaotic economy.”
“By your resilience, you have provided volume to our shipping lines and ultimately to Opascor and to the public,” he said. “You are the arteries of our trade system.”
Among the partners honored during the event was the Federation of Ecozone Service Providers – Visayas Chapter, represented by its president, Leslie D. Lim.
Riveral also lauded the commitment of Opascor’s board of directors, officers, and employees, saying their dedication has been central to the company’s ability to adapt and grow. “Your commitment has been crucial to our success,” Riveral noted.
The chairman underscored the company’s open-door policy, emphasizing that Opascor management remains accessible around the clock.
“If you have problems in the port, you can call our officers—and even call me. Even in the middle of the night, we will be responding to your calls. Our clients are the most important people in the life of Opascor.”
The event concluded on a forward-looking note, as Riveral urged continued collaboration and unity.
“We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, and we believe that together, we can achieve even greater things. Alone we can do little. Together we can do greater things,” he said.
Business News Asia