Manila, Sept. 3 -- The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is "carefully evaluating" the termination of the contract for the Zamboanga Port project amid the construction delays and "operational concerns."

In a statement on Wednesday, the PPA said the Zamboanga Port project was "unavoidably delayed" due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the increase in the prices of construction materials, and a shortage in manpower.

"Despite these challenges, the contractor proceeded with implementation, albeit at a very slow pace," it said.

To date, the PPA has issued formal notices and warning letters to the contractor to expedite the work on the port, while taking into consideration the difficulties encountered on the project by granting time extensions.

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