CPA: Quake-damaged ports under assessment

FOR POSSIBLE REHAB

- Jonnavie Villa/MRM

Nearly a year after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake damaged several key ports in northern Cebu, the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) said rehabilitation plans remain dependent on ongoing engineering and geological studies that will determine whether the affected sites can still safely host port facilities.

During the 17th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Cebu's regular session, CPA General Manager Francisco Comendador III reported that comprehensive assessments are being conducted in the ports of Hagnaya in San Remigio, Kawit in Medellin, and Polambato in Bogo City, all of which sustained damage following the earthquake on September 30, 2025.

Comendador appeared before the Provincial Board pursuant to Resolution No. 1949-2026 authored by Board Member Celestino Martinez III, which sought updates on the condition of the ports and discussions on revenue-sharing arrangements between the CPA and local government units (LGUs).

Among the affected facilities, the Port of Hagnaya in San Remigio remains one of the primary concerns due to observed ground subsidence following the earthquake.

The CPA said studies are expected to provide crucial information on whether rehabilitation can proceed at the existing location or whether authorities may have to consider relocating port operations.

“What concerns us most is if the study will prohibit the continuing use of the area,” Comendador told the Provincial Board.

He explained that one possible outcome of the assessment could be a recommendation against rebuilding in the same site if geological conditions prove unsafe.

“Dili na pwede butangan og pantalan kay nagsige padayon og us-us,” he said, referring to the possibility of continued ground subsidence in the area.

Because of this, the CPA is also looking into identifying alternative locations should the studies conclude that the present sites are no longer suitable for port operations.