Babatngon: The Leyte provincial government is set to commence the construction of an international seaport in Babatngon town this year, aiming to bolster the local economy.

According to Philippines News Agency, the seaport, named Leyte Province International Port and Leyte Export Processing Complex, will be financed through a PHP1.6-billion loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines, as stated by Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla. "With this port, there will be no more transshipment if there are importations intended for Eastern Visayas, resulting in lower prices of goods," Petilla informed reporters.

Currently, cargoes for Eastern Visayas are routed through Cebu City before reaching Leyte and Samar provinces. The new port is anticipated to reduce tariff rates for port users, create job opportunities, decrease travel time for shipping, and enhance the movement of products and commodities in the region.

Governor Petilla explained that Babatngon was selected as the site for the international seaport due to its proximity to Samar Island, eliminating the need for cargo ships to navigate the San Juanico Strait or pass the San Juanico Bridge. Despite its strategic maritime location, Babatngon's economic potential remains underutilized, prompting the need for development to reduce reliance on the Tacloban and Ormoc ports and alleviate urban road congestion.

The international port was proposed due to limitations at the Tacloban port, including the restricted vertical clearance of the San Juanico Bridge. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry's position paper, which underscored the project's urgency and strategic significance, further influenced the decision to proceed with the construction.

The project will initially cover 20 hectares, with plans for an additional 20 hectares for future expansion. The site, located a kilometer from the national highway, will necessitate the building of an access road. The port will feature a container yard, warehouse, and docking facilities for roll-on, roll-off ships.

Governor Petilla noted that the provincial government would initially manage the port upon completion, but expressed a preference for outsourcing management to leverage private sector expertise, while maintaining provincial control over operations. The project is slated for completion by 2027.