Construction on the New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP) in Barangay Tayud, Consolacion town, northern Cebu has sparked complaints from nearby residents over noise and dust, but the contractor says measures are in place to reduce the impact on surrounding communities.
Contractor Addresses Concerns
Lilia Pidejero, project coordinator of HJ Shipbuilding and Construction, acknowledged the disturbances caused by construction but emphasized steps taken to minimize effects on residents, including students. She said noisy activities are generally limited to 9 p.m., while quieter work may continue beyond that hour.
"Part of the Environmental Impact Statement study is the expectation that there will be noise during construction. What we are doing is limiting activities that generate excessive noise until around 9 p.m. or even earlier whenever possible," she said in an interview on Monday, June 1, 2026.
Community Dialogue
Residents complained that construction noise affects children studying at night. While the company has not committed to further reducing operating hours, Pidejero said it remains open to discussing concerns through barangay officials. The company conducted information drives to explain the project's impacts and mitigation measures.
"If there are concerns from the community, it is better if these are relayed through the barangay so they can formally reach us and we can determine what adjustments can be made," she said.
Dust Suppression Measures
To address dust concerns, HJ Shipbuilding deploys water trucks to spray the construction area almost hourly. Pidejero said water trucks operate continuously, ensuring dust is controlled without making roads too slippery.
The project's operational area covers about two hectares of private land, with reclamation works farther offshore, reducing dust impact on residential areas. Pidejero noted the construction zone is not densely populated.
Access Road and Permits
Some residents questioned excavation activities, including the removal of a hill near the site. Pidejero explained this is for the access road to the port. Private landowners allowed materials from their properties to be used as fill for reclamation.
She denied allegations of missing permits, stating the company has an environmental compliance certificate and other approvals. Earth-moving operations are land development, not quarrying.
Project Timeline
The NCICP project remains on schedule for completion by December 2027. Once finished, it will be turned over to the Department of Transportation for future operations. Pidejero said noise and dust complaints are common in large-scale projects and are being addressed through environmental mitigation measures.
