The Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry position was to transfer the present airport to Silay, its president Roberto Montelibano yesterday said.

He said there are proposals to delay the transfer of the airport because the road network leading to the one in Silay is not yet complete. However, he said they have not yet met on the issue of continuing the operation in Silay.

Montelibano said that, despite the delay, they believe the airport in Silay is a better choice and the business community is in favor of their position to relocate there. He said that, although they wanted the airport in Bacolod extended, it could not be done. Montelibano said another reason is the strong winds coming from the sea that affect the landing of planes.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia, meanwhile, said the airport in Bacolod is about 1,860 meters, while that in Silay is 2,000 meters, or a difference of about 140 meters and this could be verified.

"In terms of the length, I think it's practically the same. If I had my way, I would prefer it here (in Bacolod) or have two airports operational," he said.

Leonardia said reliable and competent sources have told him that the trend now is not closing airports, but opening new ones.

On the other hand, he said the city is not yet ready with its study on the existing Bacolod airport which he had earlier planned to present to the President on her visit to the province on Friday.

Meanwhile, Leonardia said he signed on Sunday documents for the purchase of two additional fogging machines for the city.

He said dengue prevention needs the cooperation of everybody. He also encouraged the public to keep their surroundings clean to prevent the spread of the disease.*CGS

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