The Bangsamoro government is investing significantly in a key maritime hub, with a major infrastructure upgrade now officially starting at the Jolo Port in Sulu.
Project Launch and Funding Details
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Friday, January 16, 2026, signaling the start of construction work. The project is backed by a P6.5 million allocation from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Nurmina Wallace, the manager of the Jolo Port Management Authority (JPMA), confirmed that the funding comes from the 2024 Transitional Development and Impact Fund (TDIF) of Lawyer Nabil Tan, who serves as the deputy speaker of the Bangsamoro Parliament. Tan personally led the groundbreaking event alongside officials from the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and Jolo Mayor Edsir Tan.
Scope of the Infrastructure Improvements
The planned upgrade focuses on enhancing the port authority's administrative facilities to support its daily operations and strategic role. A central component of the project is the expansion of the conference room, which has been criticized for its limited capacity.
Beyond the expansion, the project includes a comprehensive overhaul of the interior design and the general workspace environment. Wallace stated that these improvements are designed to create a more comfortable and functional setting for both important meetings and routine administrative tasks.
Expected Impact on Port Operations and Sulu
According to JPMA officials, the modernized facilities will lead to tangible benefits for port users and the local economy. The upgrade is projected to enable smoother coordination among staff and stakeholders, boost administrative efficiency, and ultimately improve the overall delivery of services at the port.
Wallace emphasized that this project is a clear reflection of the BARMM government's ongoing commitment to investing in vital public infrastructure. By strengthening the operational base of the Jolo Port Management Authority, the initiative reinforces the port's critical role as a primary gateway for trade, mobility, and economic activity throughout the province of Sulu.
