PH’s first ‘cruise port’ to open today
By Myla Iglesias | Malaya | July 8, 2021
The expansion project, which covers the construction of the reinforced concrete (RC) Platform Back-Up Area and RC Pier Extension, was officially completed on 20 April 2021. (Photo: DOTr FB Page)
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is set to inaugurate today the expanded Salomague Port in Ilocos Sur which is being groomed as one of the “cruise ports” in the country.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, together with Jay Daniel Santiago, Philippine Ports Authority general manager, will lead the inauguration of the port.
The completed development projects include the construction of the reinforced concrete (RC) platform back-up area and RC pier extension.
Salomague Port is expected to promote local economic sufficiency as job opportunities, especially in the tourism sector, will be offered once the port becomes fully operational.
Located near the tourist areas and beaches of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur as well as near the ports of Hong Kong and South China, cruise calls to the country are expected to increase significantly.
At least 71 people were employed during the port’s construction phase from November 2019 to April 2021 when it was finished.
Meanwhile, DOTr will also inspect other transport infrastructure projects in the vicinity, including the Vigan Airport.
Currently, the gateway is undergoing site acquisition, widening of passenger terminal building, construction of admin building and power house, renovation of the vehicular parking area, water tank and runway strip grade correction.
Once the facelift of the Vigan Airport is complete, it can serve bigger aircraft which translates to more flights and passengers.
Last week, DOTr started the operation of the rehabilitated and upgraded Port of Talaga in Mabini, Batangas.
The rehabilitation includes the construction of the port operations building and back up area as well as the installation of a lighting system.
DOTr reported having completed 446 seaport projects under the Duterte administration’s Build, Build, Build program and117 more seaport projects are under construction and expected to be completed beyond 2022.
Source: Malaya