Manapla Port Stevedoring and Arrastre Set to Drive Growth
MANAPLA, Negros Occidental – The Manapla Port Stevedoring and Arrastre is poised to generate an impressive P10 million in annual revenue for this municipality. Located in Barangay Punta Salong, the port officially begins operations on June 28, promising to create new livelihood opportunities for residents and marking a significant milestone in local development.
Mayor Manuel Escalante III highlighted during a June 14 briefing that the Manapla Port Stevedoring and Arrastre project was funded entirely by private investors, with no local government expenditure. “Wala kami gin-gasto nga kwarta halin sa lokal nga gobyerno. Wala kami ginpanganib, kundi progreso, kalamboan, kag kauswagan ang among makuha,” he said in Hiligaynon, emphasizing the town’s optimistic outlook.
Strategic Location and Efficient Operations
The port has already secured all necessary permits, reinforcing the municipality’s goal of having its own operational port to accelerate growth. Escalante expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential, saying, “We truly wanted to have our own port. We believe this will speed up development. We’re excited and optimistic.”
Manapla Port Stevedoring and Arrastre will be serviced by Lite Ferries Shipping Co., connecting Manapla Port to Ajuy Port in Iloilo. This route completes a crucial nautical highway link between Negros Occidental and Panay Island, improving transportation and trade efficiency.
Shipping Operations and Cost Advantages
One of the investors, Dave Sarrosa, shared that the port will operate as an open-access facility. Initially, Lite Ferries Shipping Co. will conduct one round-trip every six hours. Within two months, a second vessel is expected to join, increasing frequency to a trip every three hours. Sarrosa explained, “This is a shorter, more efficient route.”
He also revealed plans to expand the port’s services to include cargo and logistics support. Port fees will be 20 to 25 percent lower than those at Bacolod Port, offering competitive rates that reduce logistics costs. Official rates will be announced soon, local leaders noted.
Community Impact and Future Expansion
The Manapla Port Stevedoring and Arrastre spans three hectares, with plans to add 15 more hectares for warehousing and logistics. This expansion aims to boost local commerce and create more jobs.
Community groups are actively involved to maximize benefits. Arlene Astrologo from the farmers and farm workers association said, “This port is a big help for vendors and their members as they will be given a chance to manage canteens selling delicacies and native products.”
Meanwhile, Jerry Beduya of the Bantay Kasag Fisherfolk Group expressed gratitude for their role in maintaining the port’s cleanliness, which provides additional income alongside their fishing livelihood. Teachers’ cooperatives also appreciate the opportunity to manage canteens and invest in local business ventures. One cooperative member remarked, “This is a long-held dream of Manapla residents and now it’s real. We’re truly grateful.”
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