Landlocked no more?
The future of Loreto, Agusan del Sur (LADS) is brimming with exciting possibilities. Recent infrastructure developments in surrounding areas and growing investor interest are paving the way for significant economic growth. Let's explore these promising trends:
Improved Accessibility
- Bukidnon Airport: Phase 1 construction is underway, aiming for completion in 2026. While a 6-hour drive (281 km) via Kapalong-Talaingod-Valencia Road, it offers a new travel option for LADS.
Bukidnon Airport
The under-construction Bukidnon Airport
Photo by Project LupadPhase 1
Phase one of the construction of the Bukidnon Airport, located in Barangay Maraymaray, Don Carlos, Bukidnon, began and is expected to be completed in 2026.According to Google Maps, the airport's distance from LADS is 281 km via Kapalong-Talaingod-Valencia Road. It takes six hours and 12 minutes to travel by car. A different route (Pan-Philippine Hwy/AH26 and Davao-Buda National Hwy/Davao-Bukidnon Hwy) will make the travel longer but probably safer. The distance of LADS to Bukidnon Airport via Buda is 335 km.
Municipality of Loreto, ADS to Bukidnon Airport
A screenshot from Google Maps
Mindanao Railway Project (MRP)
- Phase 1 (Tagum-Davao-Digos) is set to begin, potentially creating a more connected network between LADS and key regions like Davao, Soccsksargen, Zamboanga, and Northern Mindanao. Tagum City is just 129 km away (2.26 hours by car), potentially boosting trade and travel.
MRP Phase 1 Report by Inquirer With an ambitious goal, the government expects to finish the South Long Haul, including the Mindanao Railway, by 2028. This signifies a long-term commitment to better connecting the island and its regions.
Municipality of Loreto, ADS to Tagum City
A screenshot from Google MapsTransportation and Urban-Rural Linkages
A driver drove from Francisco Bangoy Airport to Poblacion Loreto at high speed (probably not lower than 80 kph) and arrived within 3 hours without traffic congestion. Unfortunately, the traffic congestion in the Davao region is worsening, especially during rush hours. Bottlenecks on the roads in many urban areas in Mindanao became unavoidable.Better transportation in Mindanao's urban areas may lead to faster economic growth. Studies proved that neighboring rural areas greatly benefit from urban developments. A study shows the mutual benefits of urban-rural linkages. To quote part of the study, "realizing urban development through rural development should be a policy agenda because of the ongoing rapid rate of urban population growth and physical expansions."2023 Q2 Development in Loreto
The Bauto is the new landmark of Loreto. Investor Spotlight
- The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is attracting foreign investors to Agusan del Sur, including areas within LADS. These investors are exploring agricultural and industrial development opportunities, offering a potential injection of capital and expertise.
Building a Sustainable Future
- Past experiences with unreliable investors necessitate careful vetting and collaborative efforts to ensure mutual benefits for all stakeholders, fostering long-term success.
Looking Ahead
Loreto, Agusan del Sur, stands at a crossroads of opportunity. Improved infrastructure, coupled with investor interest, creates a fertile ground for economic progress. By learning from past experiences and fostering a collaborative spirit, LADS can unlock its full potential and build a thriving future.0