San Miguel Corporation, led by its chairman Ramon Ang, still wants to push forward with its ambitious plan to build a bridge connecting Boracay and Caticlan, as well as upgrade the Caticlan airport. This multi-billion peso project aims to address the growing congestion and environmental challenges facing the world-famous Boracay, while also enhancing tourist experience and infrastructure in the region.
Ang’s proposal, originally made in 2019, envisions a 1.2-kilometer bridge spanning from mainland Malay, Aklan to the island of Boracay. The bridge, estimated to cost around P8 billion, is seen as a solution to the island’s waste disposal problems, as it would allow for easier transport of waste materials off the island. Furthermore, the bridge would provide an alternative route for tourists, potentially reducing the number of people staying on Boracay itself.
In an aviation forum, Ang stated that Boracay will become more beautiful if he can decongest Boracay and move people to Caticlan. This shift in tourist accommodation would not only benefit the environment but also provide more space for locals and businesses on the island.
The bridge project is not just about infrastructure, it’s about creating a more sustainable and efficient system for Boracay. It would also serve as a vital link for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation, as well as providing dedicated pathways for power, telecommunication, water supply, sewerage, and utility lines.
While the bridge project is still under negotiation, San Miguel is moving ahead with the upgrade of the Godofredo Ramos Airport in Caticlan. The existing airport terminal is temporary, and San Miguel plans to replace it with a new, larger terminal capable of handling 7 million passengers annually. The new terminal will feature 8 passenger boarding bridges, significantly improving the passenger experience and reducing congestion.
However, the airport project has faced delays due to challenges in acquiring land for the runway extension. Many of the land parcels are privately owned, and some landowners are demanding exorbitant prices for their property. Ang expressed frustration with this situation, stating that some landowners are asking for ten times the appraised value of their land.
Despite these setbacks, San Miguel remains committed to completing the airport project. The contract for the new terminal building is expected to be awarded this year, with completion anticipated within three years.
Ang emphasized that the upgrade of the Caticlan airport would not negatively impact the nearby Kalibo airport. Kalibo, with its larger capacity, can handle bigger aircraft, while Caticlan will focus on smaller aircraft like the Airbus A320.
San Miguel Corporation is currently involved in several infrastructure projects, including the modernization of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the development of the Bulacan airport, and the proposed Boracay bridge and Caticlan airport upgrades. These projects reflect the company’s stated goal of improving the country’s infrastructure and supporting the growth of the tourism industry. While the Boracay bridge project has encountered challenges, San Miguel’s ongoing work on the Caticlan airport upgrade suggests a focus on enhancing tourism infrastructure in the region.
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