Incoming Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs Martin Diño yesterday said he plans on recommending the establishment of freeport zones in Negros.

According to the former Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman, the geographic location and depth of the local waters makes the area “perfect” for large container ships.

He noted, freeport zones need around 10,000 hectares of land, which would be fenced off, allowing for investors to set up shop in the area.

“We currently have a $114 billion project in Subic,” said Diño. “One of my recommendations is to have a ‘Subic’ here in Negros.”

He added, the project would also generate hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Diño served as guest of honor for yesterday’s send-off ceremony for Task Force MassKara at the Bacolod City Government Center./DGB, WDJ