The Philippine Ports Authority on Friday said the rehabilitation of the PPA-regulated Marawi Port in Lanao Del Sur is almost complete, in time for the Marawi Liberation Anniversary next year.

According to PPA spokesperson Eunice Samonte, the reconstruction of Marawi Port to date is at 70 percent.

The port was totally devastated during the Marawi siege in September 2017.

"Regarding the improvements and developments in Marawi port, Phase I of the project is expected to be completed by February 2024, hence, it will be fully operational by October 2024," Samonted said.

On the other hand, she said the ongoing MRRP-Port Facilities (civil works) Project at Port of Marawi (MAA-Sector 8), Marawi City, Lanao del Sur is a new port construction developed through the Task Force Bangon Marawi initiative by the Office of the President for the recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of the city of Marawi affected by the fighting between government forces and the Islamic State.

"The project covers the construction of facilities such as a backup area of about 8,000 square meters, a one-story Passenger Terminal Building (with 132 seating capacity) of about 265 sq.m., a one-story fish port, and a berthing facility for Fastcraft and a RoRo ramp," she said.

In addition, prior to the implementation of the project, the only existing facility in the Port of Marawi is a causeway that is being used by the fish folks, Samonte said.

In 2021, the PPA, through the General Appropriations Act for 2021, received P242,750,191.04 approved budget for the contract payments under the contract for the civil works (of) the Port of Marawi (Most Affected Area — Sector 8), Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.