The Cebu South Harbor and Container Terminal Corp. (CSHCTC) has put forward an unsolicited proposal for the development of an integrated transport terminal and a fish port at the existing Talisay Fish Port facility in the Talisay City-side of the South Road Properties.
The proposal was presented by CSHCTC general manager Michael Martin Teotico before the Capitol’s Economic Enterprise Council (EEC) headed by Gov. Gwen Garcia on April 11.
It was also attended by Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony Gullas Jr., LTFRB 7 director Eduardo Montealto Jr., and Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) general manager Atty. Glen Pangapalan.
The proposed project aims to transform the Talisay Fish Port into a modern and comprehensive facility that serves both transportation and fisheries needs.
Under the proposal, CSHCTC shall expand the existing port infrastructure and integrate it with the international port currently operated by the company.
One of the highlights of the proposal is the establishment of an integrated transport terminal, which will provide a centralized hub for various modes of transportation, including a bus terminal and sea port.
Moreover, the development plan includes a modern regional fish port that shall cater to the needs of local fishermen and supports the fisheries industry in Central Visayas.
To proceed with the proposal, CSHCTC is expected to formally submit its detailed plan to the EEC in the coming days.
The project, if approved, will undergo a Swiss Challenge as mandated by law, wherein other interested firms will have the opportunity to submit competing proposals.
For his part, Director Montealto assured Gov. Gwen that LTFRB will rally behind the project and assist it in securing necessary permits for the operation of a bus terminal.
Atty. Pangapalan, moreover, added that the proposed fish port is also in consonance with PFDA’s plan of opening the regional fish port in Cebu as this is a priority project of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
When asked by 𝐒𝐮𝐠𝐛𝐨 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬, provincial legal officer Atty. Donato Villa said they have yet to identify what mode of partnership will be undertaken to proceed with the project, hinting that a joint venture agreement with the Capitol and City Hall is a possibility.
Gov. Gwen has since underscored the importance of private sector participation in infrastructure development, particularly in projects that promote sustainable growth and job creation, as evident in Capitol’s existing partnerships with several private firms.
If realized, the integrated transport terminal and fish port is expected to enhance Cebu’s port infrastructure and support economic development in the province. | Carlo Lorenciana