Erap backs PPA plan to build more ferry stations

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada is supporting the plan of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to build more stations for the Pasig River ferry service, which he said will make the city more accessible to commuters and traders.

Estrada said yesterday he met with PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago, who offered to put up ferry terminals at major areas in Manila, including Quinta Market, whose P90-million renovation is nearing completion.

He earlier appropriated funds for the construction of a port along Pasig River at the back of Quinta Market to accommodate fish buyers using the river as their route, but Santiago offered to undertake the construction of the port and ferry station.

He said the planned ferry service will also link up with Light Rail Transit 1 stations in the city.

At present, the ferry service is managed by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority but its ridership remains low, he said.