San Miguel Corporation (SMC) assured that no boatmen would lose their jobs under its proposed Boracay bridge project, amid growing concerns from local transport cooperatives about the future of traditional sea-based livelihoods. SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang made the statement during the groundbreaking ceremony of the new passenger terminal building at the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (Caticlan Airport). The new airport terminal is set to increase annual capacity to 7 million passengers by 2027. “No boatman will lose their job,” Ang said. “Under our proposal, we will work with them, train them, and help them transition to driving a hybrid vehicle that will bring visitors across.” The proposed 1.2-kilometer limited-access bridge will connect mainland Malay to Boracay Island, aiming to improve accessibility, facilitate transport of goods and waste, and support the anticipated growth in tourist arrivals. The PHP 8-billion project also includes dedicated lanes for public transport, pedestrians, bicycles, and provisions for power, water, and sewage utilities. Local stakeholders, including the Caticlan Boracay Transport Multi-Purpose Cooperative, had earlier raised concerns over the potential displacement of approximately 500 boatmen and 40 boat owners who currently operate ferry services between Caticlan and Boracay. Ang addressed these concerns by reiterating SMC’s commitment to inclusive development: “These boatmen are vital to Boracay’s tourism economy. We want to protect their livelihoods and give them more stable, long-term jobs in a cleaner, more sustainable transport system.” Beyond passenger mobility, Ang emphasized the bridge’s potential to address logistical challenges on the island, particularly in solid waste management: “The island generates thousands of tons of sewage a day. We all know how difficult it is to get that off the island quickly and safely. This bridge can help with that.” The bridge proposal, however, faces scrutiny after the Malay Municipal Planning and Development Office removed the project from its Land Use and Investment Plan last month, citing the need for further public consultation and environmental review.
Leave a Reply