The plan seaport is of international standard
TACLOBAN CITY – An international standard seaport is set to be constructed in Babatngon, Leyte, a development expected to spur economic activities in the fourth-class town, located 33 kilometers northwest of this regional center.
Engr. Edgar Tabacon, the regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), confirmed the project in a letter to the Regional Development Council on July 31, 2024.
Tabacon stated that the Philippine Ports Authority will commence the construction of the Babatngon Port, with a project cost of P934.20 million.
He, however, did not say any timeline regarding the construction of the Babatngon Port which is located in Barangay Bacong, four kms away from the town center.
“This is a welcome development in the sea transport sector of the region, ensuring that inter-island shipping remains a viable option for transporting people and cargo, thereby contributing to the attainment of an expanded and upgraded infrastructure,” Tabacon wrote.
“Moreover, this will improve regional links to local and international commerce and trade, serving as a vital component in attaining inclusive growth and socio-economic progress,” added Tabacon, who chairs the RDC’s infrastructure and utilities development council.
The proposed Babatngon Port, in the pipeline for decades, aims to become a regional transshipment hub.
The port will primarily service cargo passenger Roro fast crafts, linear vessels, and conventional and tramping cargo vessels transporting all types of cargo, including containerized cargoes. It can accommodate eight Roro vessels with an average length of 90 meters at any given time due to its deep harbor.
It can also serve as a jump-off point to several major destinations, such as Cebu, Masbate, Panay, Negros, the Bicol Region, and Luzon.
The sea routes from Babatngon Port to these major destinations are shorter compared to those utilizing the ports of Tacloban and Ormoc. Additionally, it could serve as an alternative route to the existing Allen (Northern Samar)-Matnog (Sorsogon, Bicol) route.
The construction of the port has generated excitement among the residents of Babatngon.
Municipal Councilor Larry Menzon expressed optimism that the Babatngon Port’s operations will not only stimulate economic activities but also generate jobs.
“This will not only benefit Babatngon but also Tacloban City, nearby areas, and the rest of the region,” Menzon said.
Babatngon is a fourth-class town with a population of more than 28,823 people spread across its 25 barangays. The main livelihood of its residents is farming and fishing, and the town has an income of over P80 million.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
