ILOILO CITY—The island province of Guimaras is eyeing for a ship and boat repair industry.
Nelson Ynion, a retired ship captain, said the ship and boat industry in Buenavista town will be part of the first phase of the proposed economic zone to be established in Guimaras.
A 10-hectare site in Tacay village has been identified for a dry dock facility and repair yard, where ships and boats can be repaired.
The coastal village is an ideal location for having deep water, which is good for mooring and berthing. It is also accessible for ferries and vessels from and to Iloilo, Negros, and Palawan.
Aside from dry dock facility and a repair yard, there’s also a proposal to make Tacay village a site for building of small vessels.
Ynion noted the industry can also generate jobs, especially as an alternative livelihood for crew members of wooden-hulled boats that were phased out by the government.
Dr. Rogelio Artajo, former president of the Guimaras State College, said Ynion’s initiative to create an economic zone will spur growth and development for the small island province.
Meanwhile, Ynion is coordinating with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) to check the proposed site.