By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

After five 152-metric ton transformers and two 82-metric ton transformers were unloaded last month at the Bacolod Real Estate and Development Corporation (Bredco) Port in Bacolod City for the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), management expressed confidence in the port’s capabilities.

“The fact that these huge industrial components of NGCP were unloaded at Bredco Port tells us of Bredco Port’s handling capability,” explained Bredco Port manager Romeo Casela. “The port can accommodate more foreign ships and [cargo].”

The transformers originated from China and will be used to enhancement of power distribution to Iloilo and Negros.

“Bredco Port is really contributing to the region in terms of development and industrialization,” he added.

Last month, the port’s Simplicio A. Palanca Seaport Terminal, which has a seating capacity of 2,500 and was previously used primarily for Manila-bound passengers, was opened for fastcraft operators.

Casela said the new facility was opened up to Iloilo-bound passengers after receiving complaints about the old terminal, claiming it was “poorly maintained” and needed a functioning air conditioning system.

He said the dry-run was timed with the peak Christmas travel season as a way of identifying points of improvement./DGB, WDJ