He also expressed that meeting the November 2023 deadline is critical to ensure that the port's infrastructure is adequate for the growing passengers, which currently stands at around 4,000 per day. He has also requested additional vessels to alleviate the pressure on existing transportation infrastructure and promote growth and development in the region.
Basilan Representative Hataman had voiced concerns during recent budget deliberations over the lack of progress on the project, which began in 2017. He said based on his observations, he estimated around 80%-85% completion, but PPA engineers said the actual figure was more like 98%.
Engineer Olyver Fortich, the Project Engineer of the PPA Port Construction and Maintenance Department (PCMD) in Manila, mentioned that based on the physical aspects, the construction progress has reached 98%. This assessment considers the presence of all necessary materials and equipment on-site. He also acknowledged that logistical challenges had caused delays but expressed confidence that the project would be completed soon with the materials and supplies now available.
Representative Hataman and the PPA both acknowledged the importance of the project to the local economy in Basilan, which relies heavily on cargo vessels for trade. They also agreed to monitor the progress of the project regularly in order to ensure its successful completion.
