Siargao port construction gains positive reviews

In Siargao, having been known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) – Port Management Office in Surigao bared several port projects in Surigao del Norte slated for expansion or rehabilitation.

These include the rehabilitation of causeway in the port of Sta. Monica in Siargao Island, a six hundred (600) meters long and six (6) meters wide concrete Causeway project amounted to P40Million. It was reported that some portions of the causeway were already damaged as evidenced by massive cracks.

Another is the construction of new port in Pilar town in Siargao Island with a total estimated budget of P30Million. The scope of work covers the construction of wharf and RO-RO ramp with a back-up area and a drainage system plus port lighting system.

Dredging of channel (waterway) in the port of Del Carmen, municipality of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte amounted to P50 Million. Re-channeling of waterway in Brgy. Consolacion in Dapa amounted to P3Million. Another dredging of channel (waterway) in Dapa port amounted to P38Million.

Still in Dapa, the construction of new port in Brgy. Jubang amounted to P75 Million. It covers the construction of wharf and RO-RO ramp with a back-up area and a drainage system plus port lighting system.

After hearing the news about the new port project currently undertaken by PPA in Brgy. Jubang, Aling Nita Libay of Brgy. Jubang could not help but express her gratitude to the Arroyo administration for the support they have given.

“I believe these port projects in Siargao will have a big impact especially here in our barrio,” Aling Nita said adding that the project is a tool for the community’s development.

Meanwhile, Sixto Virtudazo in Pilar town believed that with the proposed construction of the new port in the game fishing capital, it is now easier for the local and foreign tourists to reach them.

“Mahayahay na isab karajaw an amo pagkadto sa Surigao kun magdaya kami nan mga butang didto. Salamat karajaw sa ini na proyekto. (It is also easier for us to reach Surigao City if we bring goods there. Thank you very much for this project),” he said.

Indeed, even local officials here are confident that with the construction and rehabilitation of these ports and terminal facilities, traveling to these seaports is now convenient not just to the local and foreign tourists but also to the people living in the area. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)