'Defer roll-on, roll-off port project in El Nido'

MANILA, Philippines - In a bid to protect one of the country’s prime tourist attractions, the Department of Tourism has urged the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to defer the roll-on, roll-off (ro-ro) port development in El Nido, Palawan.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano said more studies on the infrastructure’s impact on the ecological system in the area is necessary, as the project would involve dredging of the shallow waters of El Nido to accommodate ro-ro vessels.

“We encourage the establishment of infrastructure as long as there are clear measures and guidelines on the ecological preservation of surrounding communities,” he said.

Durano said the planned route of the ro-ro vessels would displace small fishing boats, affecting a major source of livelihood of the locals.

“Ecotourism is the island’s primary source of living. Therefore, environmental conservation should be a priority concern of the developers,” he added.

Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque Jr. said El Nido is a protected area and part of the so-called Coral Triangle and one of the most important aquatic biodiversity sites in the world.