The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has vowed to “fast-track” the approval process and the feasibility study for the proposed bridge that will connect Iloilo and Guimaras.

NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie G. Edillon said the actual construction of the Iloilo-Guimaras bridge is targeted to start next year.

Edillon was in Iloilo City on Tuesday, Sept. 3, to attend the 13th leg of “Dagyaw 2019” at the Iloilo Convention Center.

The bridge project was discussed during the Open Government and Participatory Governance Regional Townhall Meeting.

This, after Nueva Valencia Sangguniang Bayan member Cecilia Ortiz asked the government’s specific plans to address the transportation problem being experienced by Guimarasnons.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) shortened the operating hours for passenger pumpboats plying the Guimaras-Iloilo route and vice versa following the Aug. 3 sea tragedy that claimed 31 lives.

“The solution that was given to us was just temporary. You’ve seen the effect. Earlier, not all Guimarasnons were present on time because we have to move from one port to the other just to be able to come to Iloilo,” Ortiz said.

Edillon told Ortiz that NEDA would tap the help of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to find a solution to their problem.

“If you need the help of the central office, as well for the short-term plan, we are updating the Philippine Development Plan and Regional Development Plan so by November matatapos na ito. With respect to this particular problem, we will make proper coordination,” she assured.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-6), on the other hand, said it is giving out assistants to the affected sectors and their families through its livelihood programs like the TUPAD or Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers. 

According to DOLE-6 Regional Director Cyril Ticao, they are now 30 percent complete in the profiling of the affected workers and their families.

He said that their National Maritime Polytechnic based in Tacloban City will also conduct safety training for the crew of pumpboats in Guimaras.IMT