Minglanilla recla project still awaiting approval

CEBU, Philippines - The construction of the proposed Minglanilla Reclamation and Industrial Park could possibly start at the soonest time; that, if the needed approval papers are obtained.

Ming-Mori Development Corp chairman Jose Soberano III, in an interview, announced the Minglanilla municipal government is hoping to get approval from the Philippine Reclamation Authority and National Economic and Development Authority within the year.

The project's whole construction could take five years while the reclamation of the property could be done in three years.

"We're just waiting for the papers or permits. When we have all the go signal, we're ready," said Soberano, who is also chief executive of Cebu Landmasters.

Ming-Mori signed a memorandum of agreement with the local government of Minglanilla in 2013 for the reclamation of the 100-hectare coastal roads in Barangays Tulay and Calajo-an in the town.

The official said: "This is not a small process. We make sure we comply with the requirements of the PPP (public-private partnership) like the feasibility study and all the requirements."

The reclamation project will initially occupy 100 hectares but it will eventually be expanded to 200 hectares.

It will locate about a hundred local and foreign investors engaged in light manufacturing industries, he said. The project is worth billions but Soberano declined to say specific amount.

While there are concerns the fishing community in the town will be affected, the official pointed out this kind of labor-intensive industry will give jobs to the locals.  (FREEMAN)