The Primary Group of Builders (PGB) is dramatically increasing investments in its maritime logistics division, substantially expanding its vessel fleet to enhance the movement of goods throughout the Philippine archipelago. This strategic move comes as e-commerce and regional trade continue their robust expansion across the nation.
Fleet Expansion and Operational Scale
PGB chairman William Christopher "Wally" Liu revealed that the group now operates more than 60 vessels, positioning the company as one of the larger privately-run domestic cargo operators in the country. "We don't really come out so often, but I think we're fairly large. The vessel fleet is nearing 60 vessels now," Liu stated during a recent announcement.
This growing fleet forms a crucial component of the company's comprehensive logistics network that transports goods between major ports and emerging provincial markets, with particular emphasis on the Visayas and Mindanao regions. According to Liu, these vessels collectively move an estimated 300,000 to 400,000 tons of cargo daily, supporting diverse supply chains ranging from commercial shipments to the rapidly expanding e-commerce sector.
Connecting Key Economic Corridors
The logistics network strategically connects Batangas in Luzon to multiple destinations in the Visayas and Mindanao, including Panay, Negros and Zamboanga. The group has also established a direct route from Sorsogon to Surigao, creating an alternative corridor for cargo movement between Luzon and Mindanao that bypasses traditional shipping lanes.
Liu emphasized that this expansion directly responds to growing demand for goods in provincial markets, which have experienced significantly stronger purchasing power in recent years. "Places you thought were very backward before are no longer like that," he observed. "Every day there's some e-commerce package heading their way."
Technical Expertise and Market Challenges
The maritime business has grown steadily over approximately 15 years, supported by the group's technical engineering capabilities and substantial investments in crew development. "We bring in our technical engineering expertise to make sure the vessels run well, and our human resources ensure the crew is really top-notch," Liu explained, highlighting the company's commitment to operational excellence.
Despite this impressive expansion, Liu acknowledged that rising global fuel prices—linked partly to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East—could increase operating costs for shipping companies throughout the industry. "Fuel has gone up... and that affects everyone," he noted, recognizing this as a significant challenge for logistics operators.
Broader Strategic Initiatives
Now marking its 75th anniversary, PGB is pursuing multiple initiatives beyond maritime logistics. Beatrice Anne Liu, a board member of PGB, revealed that the company is advancing new vessel acquisitions in logistics, real estate partnerships, home investment programs, lifestyle promotions, and expanded human capital and foundation projects as part of its broader strategy to generate long-term social and economic impact.
In June, the company's construction arm, Primary Structures, will spearhead the launch of a Construction Cluster integrated operations program that will combine construction, materials, and equipment services under a unified platform. This initiative aims to streamline operations while expanding the group's construction services beyond the Visayas and Mindanao to Luzon, bringing comprehensive construction solutions to more markets nationwide.
The Primary Group of Builders continues to advance strategic business initiatives across its various industries, demonstrating a multifaceted approach to growth that extends well beyond its maritime logistics expansion. This comprehensive strategy positions the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the Philippine economy while addressing evolving market demands across multiple sectors.
