Shipyard companies operating in the Municipality of Consolacion have been asked to evacuate the area and transfer up north, either in Bogo City or Tabogon, to help Consolacion implement its developmental plans for the area.
This was the gist of the meeting at the Capitol on May 23 attended by Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado and representatives from seven of eleven shipyard firms operating in Brgy. Tayud which are visible from Cansaga Bay Bridge.
Mayor Alegado explained to the shipyard firms that despite currently operating within the municipal waters of Consolacion, they find themselves situated in an area designated as a tourism zone by the municipal council, thereby raising concerns about their compliance with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan of the LGUs and the potential ramifications of their continued operations.
Moreover, the LGU is also in the advanced stages of complying with the documentary requirements for a 235-hectare reclamation project along the coastal area of Brgy. Tayud which is seen to be an economic hub for Consolacion. It will feature mixed-use commercial, industrial, institutional, and tourism development of which the town needs for its economic growth under a public-private partnership (PPP).
“The Province is ready to come in to assist Consolacion; so why don’t we come up with an amicable solution rather than go to court?” Governor Gwen said as she echoed the sentiments of Mayor Alegado, stressing the importance of finding viable solutions that uphold legal mandates while fostering growth opportunities for all stakeholders involved.
Among the shipyard companies represented at the meeting are MCF Heavy Industries Corp.; Uni-Orient Pearl Ventures Inc.; Fortune Shipworks, Inc.; Santiago Shipyard and Shipbuilding Corp.; Nagasaka Shipyard, Inc.; Colorado Shipyard Corp.; and Philippine Rigid Construction Corp.
The proposed relocation to Bogo City and Tabogon also presents an opportunity for these shipyard companies to continue their operations in a manner consistent with regulatory requirements of the government.
Moreover, it will also contribute to the economic activities of these northern Cebu LGUs, especially in the town of Tabogon, which Mayor Francis Eward Salimbangon referred to as a “sleeping town.”
“You are very much welcome diri sa Lungsod sa Tabogon. As much as possible og makuha na, okay kaayo ko kay dako kaayo nag tabang sa akong lungsod,” Mayor Salimbangon said, offering the shipyards a conducive area located between the coastal barangays of Alang-Alang and Maslog.
As for Bogo City, Mayor Carlo Jose Martinez offered them to be relocated in the industrial zone of the city which is near the port in Brgy. Pulang Bato.
After the meeting, four companies have committed to relocate while the others are still exploring other options available. The governor has given them an initial six months to at least show signs of relocation.
The meeting was also attended by Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) regional director Annabelle Lagas and Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Donato Villa. | BJR