To ease cargo flow, Polambato port offers good proximity for logistic firms

CEBU, Philippines - Shipping lines and logistic companies are encouraged to consider investing in Polambato, Bogo City as a potential port for cargo shipments to and from Cebu, providing them with possible direct routes and faster time travel and shorter distance.

In an interview with the Department of Trade and Industry - Cebu (DTI-Cebu), business development division chief Elias Tecson said that the local government of Bogo City led by Mayor Celestino “Junie’ Martinez III  consulted the agency’s assistance to help promote the Philippine Economic Zone Authority-registered port for cargo shipments.

He added that the public needs to be aware that the barangay in Bogo City actually offers proximity that is open to other regions.

He cited that logistic companies who usually suffer long waiting lines in the Tabuelan port for their cargoes to be shipped need not to worry anymore since they could actually take advantage of the Polambato port instead.

Rather than cutting trips to San Carlos, Negros Occidental, Bacolod, Iloilo and Manila, he noted that the potential port in Bogo City could provide direct routes to those key destinations with shorter travel time.

Last April 25, DTI-Cebu conducted an investment forum on Bogo City’s Polambato port that was participated by representatives from the local government agency, Cebu Port Authority, shipping lines, cargo companies, truckers association, travel agencies, and tour operators.

Medallon Shipping Corporation expressed optimism on the potential investment opportunities in the port, thus emphasizing the company’s commitment to operate in the area.

Once cargo companies will be ready to commit in the proposed project as clients, Medallon shall initially provide one large-sized vessel for shipment.

The need for more dredging activities to accommodate convenient maneuvers for big shipping vessels was also discussed.

Tecson said that Bogo City is considered to be a growth center for trade and commerce and strategic take-off point in the northern area of the province given the enabling business environment initiated by the local government unit.

He further revealed that the Polambato port is projected to be a potential port for more tourists and visitors going to various tourist destinations and diving spots such as the Malapascua Island.

DTI-Cebu shall conduct a follow-up meeting with the concerned sectors particularly with interested logistic companies possibly after the May 2013 elections. /JOB (FREEMAN)