MAYOR Jane Yap and Vice-Mayor Adam Relson Jala of Tagbilaran City have taken the lead in facilitating a critical dialogue among various stakeholders regarding the Panglao-Tagbilaran Offshore Bridge Connector Project.
The bridge, designed to connect the island of Panglao with Tagbilaran City, is deemed as a key infrastructure initiative to boost tourism and ease traffic congestion in the city.
However, several concerns surrounding the project’s scope, its long-term rehabilitation plans, and environmental impact have raised alarm among local residents, civil society organizations, and environmental groups.
The meeting, which took place earlier this week at the SP Session Hall, brought together representatives from government agencies, punong barangays, environmental experts, officers and members of the Tagbilaran City Peoples’ Council, and concerned citizens.
Mayor Yap, known for her proactive approach to governance, emphasized the need for transparency and open communication to resolve the issues that have emerged.
KEY CONCERNS
Environmental protection advocates and residents have raised concerns about the ongoing “dump and fill” operations beside the bridge.
The process, which involves filling the coastal areas near the bridge with earth and other materials to create solid ground for the bridge’s craneway, has raised environmental red flags.
Critics argue that these activities could disrupt local ecosystems, food source, and affect marine biodiversity.
Mayor Yap acknowledged these concerns during the meeting, assuring stakeholders that the city government is committed to addressing these issues.
“We understand the importance of balancing progress with environmental protection. It’s crucial that we find solutions that protect both our environment and our people,” Yap said.
REHAB PLANS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Another critical point of discussion was the rehabilitation plans for the bridge once it is completed.
Experts have emphasized the need for a comprehensive maintenance and rehabilitation strategy to ensure that the bridge remains safe, operational, and resilient to natural calamities, especially in a region prone to earthquakes and typhoons.
City Administrator Alvin Acuzar asked for a concrete rehabilitation plan after the bridge shall have been constructed.
Further, he asked if the rehabilitation plan is included in the project’s budget allocation.
City Mayor Jane Yap on one hand, also requested a copy of the Environmental Impact Study (EIS), while City Legal Officer Atty. Kathy Blanche Borja-Jamila sought the sea current and boring tests.
Mr. Jun Salgados from PROCESS-BOHOL also reinforced the damage to marine life, noting that there were mangroves, seagrasses, and corals which were displaced during its construction.
Engr. Nonnie Paylado, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Chief of the Planning and Design Division assured the public that detailed rehabilitation plans are in place.
However, some stakeholders called for more clarity on the timeline and specifics of these plans.
“We need to make sure that maintenance is not just an afterthought but a clear, actionable strategy,” Baywatch Atty. Gigi Biliran emphasized.
NEXT STEPS
As a result of the meeting, City Vice-Mayor Adam Relson Jala proposed for the temporary suspension of the project until submission of the requested documents such as the Environmental Impact Study (EIS), Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), Rehabilitation Plan, and Sea Current and Boring Tests.
DPWH Engr. Paylado respected the decision of the body and is committed to furnish the City Government with the plans.
Engr. Paylado also requested the body to make the proposal official.
All the participants conducted a site inspection after the meeting’s adjournment.
