Mandaue eyed as new site of international port

CEBU, Philippines – The Cebu Port Authority is considering Mandaue City as a possible relocation site for the Cebu International Port.

CPA General Manager Vicente Suazo told The FREEMAN Mandaue City is an ideal site because its area can very well accommodate an international port. He said the new site should be about 50 hectares.

"Wala pay final kay nangita pami og other alternative sites para mapilian, which could be the most ideal. Mandaue will be one among the several sites nga pili-an," Suazo said.

The final decision, he said, will be made by the CPA board chaired by the secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications.

The CIP needs a depth of 150 meters to accommodate huge vessels. At present, it only has a depth of 35 meters and could no longer be expanded as doing so would reportedly constrict the harbor. 

Suazo said expanding the port would usher faster trade facilitation, which, in turn, would improve local economy and provide more employment opportunities.

Suazo also proposed that after the CIP would be relocated, the existing site should be converted into a commercial and business area to complement the development of the South Road Properties nearby.

The powers and functions of the CPA in administering the Port of Cebu is vested in and exercised by the Cebu Port Commission, which is composed of seven members. (FREEMAN)