New Container Port in Consolacion Set to Begin Construction
The long-awaited construction of the New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP) in Consolacion, northern Cebu, is finally set to commence. After decades of planning and delays, the national government has officially approved the project, signaling a significant step forward for the region’s infrastructure. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the civil works contract on December 18, 2023, allowing the Korean company HJ Shipbuilding and Construction Co. Ltd. (HJSC) to begin work on this multi-billion peso project. This development is expected to enhance Cebu’s capacity to handle international cargo and stimulate economic growth in the area.
A Milestone for Cebu’s Infrastructure
The NCICP project has been in the pipeline since 2002 when the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) first proposed the idea of a new container port to alleviate congestion at the existing Cebu International Port. After years of discussions and planning, the Philippine government signed a loan agreement in 2018 with the Export-Import Bank of Korea for $172.64 million to fund the construction. The Philippine government will contribute an additional $26.09 million to the project.
The new port will be built on a 25-hectare reclaimed land area and will feature a 500-meter berth length with a water depth of -12 meters. Once completed, the NCICP will have the capacity to accommodate two 2,000 twenty-foot equivalent (TEU) vessels simultaneously. The port will also include essential facilities such as a freight station, an inspection shed, and an access road with a bridge. Construction is expected to be completed between 2027 and 2028, marking a significant milestone in Cebu’s infrastructure development.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
The NCICP is anticipated to have a profound impact on Cebu’s economy. By increasing the region’s capacity to handle international cargo, the port is expected to facilitate trade and commerce, ultimately contributing to long-term economic development. The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) has expressed optimism about the project, stating that it will significantly enhance the region’s logistics capabilities.
Moreover, the construction of the NCICP is likely to create numerous job opportunities for local residents, both during the construction phase and once the port becomes operational. This influx of jobs can lead to increased economic activity in the surrounding areas, benefiting local businesses and communities. As the port becomes a hub for international shipping, it may also attract more investments, further boosting Cebu’s economic landscape.
The commencement of the NCICP construction marks a new chapter for Cebu’s infrastructure and economic growth. With the support of the national government and international partners, this project has the potential to transform the region into a vital logistics center in the Philippines.
