Opascor rides out maritime woes with trust-based partnerships

CEBU, Philippines —  Oriental Port and Allied Services Corp. (Opascor), the exclusive cargo handler at Cebu International Port (CIP), is doubling down on strategic partnerships and long-term investments to weather a tough maritime environment marked by rising costs and falling cargo volumes.

Speaking at the company’s annual Partners’ Appreciation Night, Chairman Tomas Riveral acknowledged the sector’s growing pressures—softer global trade, higher borrowing costs, and persistent supply chain disruptions.

Still, he pointed to trust-based partnerships as Opascor’s anchor through the storm.

“We are not immune to global challenges. But strong, lasting relationships have kept us steady,” Riveral told an audience of shipping lines, logistics players, and regulators during the event held at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

The event came as the company faces operational headwinds. Two shipping lines exited Cebu in the second half of 2024, and a key partner scaled back due to financial struggles. But others stepped up. Shipping lines including Evergreen, Fujitrans, and SITC posted higher cargo volumes despite a tough market, a sign, Riveral said, of mutual confidence.

“These numbers are not just metrics—they show that our partners believe in our port,” he said.

Opascor also credited government support for helping sustain operations.

Riveral singled out Customs Collector Atty. Felipe Geoffrey K. De Vera IV for leadership that has brought a “new sense of momentum” to Cebu’s port community. He also praised the Cebu Port Authority and other agencies for “steady hands in uncertain times.”

A key announcement of the evening was Opascor’s investment in new dredging equipment, expected to go live next month. The upgrade will allow the port to handle vessels with up to 11 meters of draft—boosting cargo capacity and efficiency.

“This isn’t just about machinery—it’s part of our plan to improve speed, accuracy, and service,” Riveral said.

Opascor also reinforced its regional ambitions. A delegation from Vietnam’s Long An Port, its sister facility, attended the event—signaling closer ties and growing interest in regional connectivity.

“Our goal is to make Cebu a stronger link in the regional trade chain,” Riveral said.

Importers, exporters, truckers, brokers, and freight forwarders were also honored for keeping cargo moving amid market volatility.

One notable awardee was the Federation of Ecozone Service Providers – Visayas Chapter, represented by president Leslie D. Lim, highlighting the growing role of ecozone services in export logistics.

Riveral closed the night with a call for unity and action.

“Our management listens, our doors are open—day or night,” he said. “Together, we can turn these challenges into new growth.”

While global shipping remains uncertain, Riveral said Opascor is leaning on its network and investing in efficiency to stay competitive.