Ferry to link Pangasinan, La Union cities

Sun.Star: DAGUPAN CITY -- A passenger ferryboat will soon link the cities of Alaminos, Dagupan and San Fernando, if plans push through. Dagupan Mayor Alipio Fernandez Jr. said the project was initiated by Alaminos Mayor Hernani Braganza. He said that the plans call for the construction of three ferry stations in the three cities located in Pangasinan and La Union. He also said that funds for the ports will likely be provided by the local governments of the said cities. They also expect to receive a counterpart fund from the National Government as part of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's super regions project. The ferry system, Fernandez said, will greatly enhance the tourism of Alaminos; the trade, commerce, shop and dine business entities of Dagupan, as well as, the regional seat in San Fernando, La Union. The mayors of the three cities held an initial meeting about the plan last November 15. "This is another plus factor in luring more tourists in Dagupan," Fernandez said. The project will also provide employment opportunities for Dagupeños who are graduates of maritime schools, the mayor added. The project will be a joint venture among the three cities. There will be two kinds of ferry boat, a 30-seater and a 100-seater. Fernandez said initially they will start with four units, with the number to be increased later. The operation of a ferry boat will greatly reduce travel time. Travel time by bus from Alaminos to Dagupan is more than an hour, while it takes about two hours from Dagupan to San Fernando, La Union. - Sun.Star