Capitol gives nod to proposed commercial port in Santander

CEBU, Philippines - The Capitol poses no objection to the construction of a private commercial port in Barangay Liloan, Santander in southern Cebu.

Grand Wega Ferry Corporation, represented by its president, Peter Holaysan, applied last year for a permit to construct the said facility.

In her letter dated January 5, 2012, Governor Gwendolyn Garcia informed Cebu Port Authority General Manager Dennis Villamor that the Province needs a facility that will play a major role in the tourism and economic development of the area.

“Rest assured that the project shall have our full support and we will always welcome the participation of the private sector in the upliftment of the quality of life of our fellow Cebuanos,” Garcia said.

Vice Governor Agnes Magpale also has issued her endorsement to the application of Holaysan for a certificate of no objection from the provincial government.

The committee on environmental conservation and natural resources of the Provincial Board, chaired by Board Member Thadeo Ouano, reviewed Magpale’s endorsement.

In the committee observation, Ouano said that it is the prime responsibility of the local government units, along with every sector of the community to effectively and efficiently implement projects necessary for the province’s growth and development in any infrastructure which may boost tourism, income and additional livelihood for its constituents.

“Thus, such programs and projects in the same manner may promote and protect the health, safety, peace and convenience for the general welfare of the inhabitants,” Ouano said.

The PB approved in their last session the recommendation of Ouano’s committee to grant the request and issue the certification to Holaysan.

Santander is a fifth class municipality situated in the southernmost part of the Province of Cebu.

It is also the location of existing sea ports that connect to Negros Oriental. Fast craft boats ferry passengers to Sibulan, Negros Oriental, with trips taking 20 minutes.

Roll-on/roll-off barges travel to Amlan, Negros Oriental, with trips taking an hour. —(FREEMAN)