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Alternative jobs for Boracay boatmen assured

Philippines | Visayas

Alternative jobs for Boracay boatmen assured

By Tara Yap

A BOAT ferries passengers in Boracay Island. (Tara Yap)

A BOAT ferries passengers in Boracay Island. (Tara Yap)

KALIBO, Aklan – Proponent San Miguel Corp. assured there will be alternative jobs for boatmen amid mounting concerns that the proposed bridge project for world-famous Boracay Island will displace livelihoods.

“Under our proposal, we will work with them, train them, and help them transition to driving a hybrid vehicle that will bring visitors across (the island),” said SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang.

“Walang bangkero na mamawala ng trabaho (No boatmen will lose their jobs),” added Ang during the July 14 groundbreaking of a new passenger building for the Caticlan (Boracay) Airport in mainland Malay town in Aklan province.

Last year, a local cooperative reported that the proposed 1.2-kilometer bridge will displace around 500 boatmen and boat owners as they no longer will have a livelihood ferrying passengers between Boracay and mainland Malay.

Ang said that SMC recognizes the essence of the boats and the boatmen to the charm of Boracay.

“They are not just for transport, but for the Boracay experience in general. They have been part of this story from the very beginning and they will continue to be,” added Ang.

Aside from the alternative livelihood, Ang cited the benefits of the proposed project that will bring safe and reliable travel between the mainland and island as well as easy transportation of goods and solid waste.

Last month, the local government unit (LGU) of Malay withdrew endorsement of the proposed bridge project when it removed the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) and Annual Investment Plan (AIP).

Related Tags

SMC San Miguel Corp. Boracay Boracay Island Boracay bridge

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