KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Philippines | March 28, 2026 — Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. is pushing for the installation of a crane at the Port of General Santos, saying it is critical to unlocking faster logistics, higher investments, and increased economic activity in South Cotabato.
Tamayo said about ₱2 billion has already been allocated for the port’s development, but efficiency remains limited without a modern cargo-handling system.
“Ang kulang na lang gid dira amo ang crane. Kinahanglan ini i-customize para sa port antes ini magamit,” he said.
He explained that a port crane can handle up to 35 containers per hour, compared to only seven containers using conventional cranes.
“Kung may port-crane kita, mas dasig ang loading kag unloading. Dako ini nga bulig sa negosyo,” Tamayo added.
Due to current limitations, several South Cotabato-based companies—including Tupi Supreme, Cipabi, and DOLE Philippines—continue to ship through Davao City, where port operations are faster and more efficient.
Tyronn Jan Villanueva, head of the South Cotabato Economic, Investment and Promotions Center (SCEIPC), said improving port capacity will strengthen South Cotabato’s role as an agricultural export hub and attract more investors.
“A stronger port means faster and cheaper shipment of goods, making our products more competitive and increasing income for farmers and businesses,” Villanueva said.
He noted that lower logistics costs will allow easier transport and marketing of surplus products locally and internationally, benefiting major exporters such as DOLE Philippines and Sumifru Philippines Corporation.
Local agri-based enterprises are also expected to gain. Producers of asparagus, cut flowers, coffee, and cacao—especially in Tupi and Polomolok—often face high transport costs due to indirect shipping routes. Improved port operations will allow more direct access to export markets.
Food processors, meat producers, and manufacturing firms will also benefit from faster movement of raw materials and finished goods.
Villanueva said improved port efficiency could sustain annual investments of around ₱15 billion to ₱20 billion, building on the province’s growth from ₱1 billion in 2019 to ₱27 billion in 2025.
“More efficient logistics will attract more investors, leading to more businesses, jobs, and economic activity across sectors,” he said.
Tamayo emphasized that once the port crane is installed, economic gains will follow.
“Kung madamo na ang naga-deliver didto, automatic magasunod ang economic activity,” he said.
The provincial government expects the port upgrade to reduce costs, boost exports, generate jobs, and position South Cotabato as a key investment and development area in the region.
