Court junks land claim over Poro Point, affirms BCDA control

The Regional Trial Court of San Fernando, La Union, has dismissed the petition for land registration filed by Shipside, Inc. over a parcel of land within the Poro Point Freeport Zone (PPFZ), ruling in favor of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

Journalists covering the BCDA attempted to obtain a copy of the court ruling, but it was not provided as the agency is still securing clearance from management.

Nonetheless, the BCDA, led by its president and CEO Engr. Joshua Bingcang, welcomed the court’s decision, saying it “strengthens BCDA’s mandate over the 543-square-meter property and paves the way for the continued advancement of strategic development initiatives in PPFZ properties.”

“These include the revitalization of the San Fernando Seaport and the comprehensive enhancement of the PPFZ,” the BCDA said in a statement on Thursday.

The state-run agency described the ruling as a critical milestone in unlocking the full potential of Northern Luzon.

“With PPFZ poised to become a key hub for tourism, logistics, and investment, the region is set to benefit from increased economic activity and long-term growth,” the statement added.

The BCDA emphasized that central to its vision is the San Fernando Seaport, whose continued operation and planned upgrades are vital to generating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and driving inclusive progress in the local community.

Earlier, the BCDA authorized its subsidiary, Poro Point Management Corp., to oversee interim operations of the San Fernando Seaport following the expiration of the lease contract with the previous operator, Poro Point Industrial Corp.