ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry P. Treñas is asking the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to fast-track the preliminary requirements for the planned modernization of the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex (ICPC) in Loboc port, Barangay Loboc, Lapuz district.
The International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) earlier announced its plan to revive its proposal to develop and operate the ICPC.
It has also submitted a proposal to the PPA to develop the Port of Dumangas. The investment is estimated to cost over P5 billion.
The proposed bidding of the contracts for the operation and management of the modernization of the Iloilo ports is expected to be done by June this year.
Treñas, in his letter to PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago, requested the PPA to fast-track the drafting and submission of, at least, the terms of reference (TOR) and other necessary bidding documents for the implementation of the most-sought port project.
“While the undersigned does appreciate and respect the timeline set forth by the Philippine Ports Authority… May we give this matter our preferential attention and act with urgency and that the proposed timeline be moved earlier as we owe this to our people and stakeholders in providing an improved quality of sea ports,”read part of Treñas letter.
As chairperson of the Infrastructure Development Committee of the Regional Development Council (RDC) 6, the city mayor vowed to fully support the project.
He said ports play a vital role in economic development as these enabled many companies to expand into new markets, acting as “funnels” for economic development, channeling money and resources into specific sectors and corridors.
Furthermore, he said ports have clear positive economic benefits as they support industries and increase national competitiveness. Taken together, shipping and port activities tend to have a multiplier effect on the economy that is much larger than the port itself.
“It is part of Iloilo City’s initiative gearing towards continuing progress and growth in our local economy to expand and/or improve our existing ports. Hence, it has been part of our negotiations and meetings to make this into reality,” he added.
Treñas also emphasized the city is still recovering from the economic repercussions brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.
“Because our ports play a vital role in reviving and, more so, reinforcing the economy of the city, there is a need to at least proceed with the preparatory documents and requirements for the said expansion the soonest possible time,” he added.
The city mayor assured that the city government is more than willing to assist the PPA and to cooperate in all stages of the project within its capacity./PN