Mayor Benjamin Magalong has assured the city government will pursue its plan to construct a new road to serve residents and motorists affected by the closure of the Loakan airport runway.
“We need to do it as the permanent solution to the access problem in the area,” the mayor said.
He said coordination is now being made with the Department of Public Works and Highways and other agencies on the technical and financial aspects of the proposed project.
However, initial findings on the lot being eyed for the road showed that there were portions owned by private individuals and not solely owned by the Philippine Export Zone Authority as initially presumed.
“Unfortunately, we need to resolve issues on the privately owned lots along with the additional funding required to get it done. The additional funding was not included in our 2023 budget so it may be worked out by 2024,” he said.
The mayor assured that arrangements are also being made with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines through Airport Manager Rosito Tamayo in working out ways to provide residents temporary access while ensuring the safety of the aircrafts and crewmen using the runway.
“What is important is to stop the indiscriminate use of the runway to prevent hazards that may compromise the safety of the passengers, airport personnel and the aircrafts,” the mayor said. – Aileen P. Refuerzo
April 27, 2024
