(THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is set to implement a P224.25 million worth of wharf and port development projects in Northern Samar, with the construction of the Allen Municipal Wharf emerging as a centerpiece initiative.
During a courtesy visit on November 12, DOTr officials Gemma Almanzar and Adelio Tagadtad briefed Governor Harris Ongchuan on the province’s maritime infrastructure program, aimed at improving passenger movement, cargo handling, and inter-island connectivity.
Among seven ongoing and proposed projects, the Allen Municipal Wharf is a critical priority. Once completed, it is expected to enhance access to major inter-island routes, ensure safer and more efficient vessel operations, reduce travel time, and support the flow of essential goods and services.
The projects form part of the DOTr Port Systems Program, which also covers Mualbual and Laoang Ports in Laoang, Mapanas Port, the rehabilitation of San Jose Port, and Phase 1 of Paninirongan Port and Wharf in Pambujan.
These developments are anchored on a 2024 memorandum of agreement between DOTr, the provincial government, and host LGUs. The San Isidro Wharf in Barangay San Roque, completed in July 2024, is already operational, serving passengers and cargo vessels and boosting local trade.
Governor Ongchuan emphasized the importance of wharfs as “vital lifelines” for island-dependent communities and thanked DOTr and Congressman Edwin Ongchuan for their support.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
