Screenshot from Presidential Communications Facebook Live
MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Transportation (DOTr) inaugurated seaport and airport improvements in Ilocos Region as it prepares for recovery in tourism and trade.
The DOTr said the events involved upgrade and expansion at the Port of Salomague in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur and the Laoag International Airport in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
“We need to be ready for the return of tourism once the pandemic ends,” Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, who led separate inauguration events on July 8, said in a statement.
The Salomague Port is being positioned as a key cruise gateway given the Ilocos Sur’s proximity to the ports of Hong Kong, Taiwan and South China.
“Cruise calls are expected to increase as the post-pandemic economic recovery is now being paved and gathering steam,” the DOTr said.
The expansion of Salomague Port included the construction of a reinforced concrete platform back-up area and RC Pier extension. These were officially completed last April 20.
Tugade also cited Philippine Ports Authority general manager Jay Santiago for the agency’s role in completing the project.
“Many projects have been inaugurated and celebrated through the efforts and industry of Jay Santiago and PPA,” Tugade said. “We look good because of institutions like PPA.”
The DOTr and Civil Aviation Authority Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) separately inaugurated the Laoag International Airport on Thursday.
This marked the completion of the new CAAP administrative building, powerhouse, expansion and improvement of passenger terminal building, expansion of apron, and the rehabilitation of the airport runway.
Two additional projects at the gateway—asphalt overlay of runway and site acquisition for future expansion—would be completed within the year, the DOTr said.
The department added that Laoag International Airport’s passenger capacity was doubled to at least 200 international passengers and 240 domestic passengers daily.
TSB