BCDA allots P1.3B for initial phase of Poro Point dev’t

MANILA, Philippines - The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has pegged the cost of the development of the first phase of the Poro Point Free Port Zone (PPFZ) in La Union at P1.3 billion.

In a statement, BCDA chairman Rolando Gosiengfiao said the initial development of the PPFZ would involve Phase 1A which focuses on the 14-hectare area of the Poro Point Lighthouse, and Phase 1B covering the existing 70-hectare industrial area of the former military base.

The infrastructure development for both phases, he noted, would cost around P1.3-billion.

Under the master development plan (MDP) prepared by Palafox Associates, the aim is to develop PPFZ into a major growth driver for North Luzon by attracting investors.

The MDP also covers the improvement and upgrade of the San Fernando Airport to accommodate direct international flights and serve as a gateway in the region, and the development of a terminal shopping mall similar to Singapore’s Changi Airport.

“We have already engaged the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center to perform a study to develop the San Fernando Airport,” Gosiengfiao said.

The PPP Center has approved funding support worth P69 million for the conduct of the feasibility study for the project.

“The new terminal will be connected to a shopping mall, and underneath it there will be a multi-mode transportation center,” Gosiengiao said.

As part of the development of PPFZ, improvements on three roads for improved access to the area have also been started.

The BCDA has allocated about P76 million for the three road projects.

“These initiatives, which include a road leading to the Poro Point Lighthouse, will improve access to and in the city,” Gosiengfiao said.

The development of the PPFZ is set for 50 years.