Leyte province is gearing up for a major leap in infrastructure with plans to build a P1.6 billion international seaport in Babatngon. The project aims to cut down on costly transshipment via Cebu, boost trade, and unlock regional economic growth.
Strategic Location Strategic Move
Babatngon was chosen for its proximity to Samar and its maritime access avoiding the need to cross the San Juanico Strait. Also, the limited vertical clearance of the San Juanico Bridge constrains larger vessels making Babatngon a more attractive site for expansion.
What The Port Will Look Like
The seaport named Leyte Province International Port and Leyte Export Processing Complex will start with 20 hectares with provisions for an additional 20 hectares in the future. Planned facilities include a container yard, warehouses, docking for roll-on and roll-off ships, and an access road connecting to the national highway.
If completed by 2027, the Babatngon seaport has the potential to transform Eastern Visayas trade, lower prices for businesses and consumers, and promote development in impoverished areas. Execution, management decisions, and integration into larger logistical networks will all be critical to the outcome.
