Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No. 180

Introduced by Representative MARLESA “DOC MARLY” HOFER-HASIM.

EXPLANATORY NOTE
As the capital of Zamboanga Sibugay, Ipil is strategically located along Sibugay Bay,
offering vast potential for maritime and eco-tourism development. However, the absence of
adequate docking and marine transport infrastructure continues to hinder the full realization of this
potential,

Currently, Ipil lacks a formal and reliable wharf facility that would enable regular, secure,
and efficient marine transport. This infrastructural gap has constrained the growth of local
economic activities, particularly those related to fisheries, inter-island transport, and small-scale
coastal trade. Without proper facilities, communities reliant on these industries face limitations in
mobility, access to markets, and economic expansion.

To address this, the proposed measure seeks to establish a dedicated wharf in Ipil. This
facility will serve as the primary embarkation and disembarkation point for marine transport and
will fulfill two key objectives: first, to stimulate local economic growth by facilitating the efficient
movement of people, goods, and services; and second, to support the long-term development of
maritime and ecotourism-related opportunities in the area.

The readiness of the Ipil Diversion Road Network, which provides direct and efficient land
access to the proposed wharf site, further strengthens the viability and strategic importance of this
project. With the road infrastructure in place, the municipality is prepared to accommodate the
anticipated increase in transport volume and economic activity that the wharf will generate

The development of this facility aligns with the national government's broader
commitment to promote inclusive growth, strengthen regional connectivity, and advance
sustainable tourism in underdeveloped areas. Moreover, it is envisioned to create long-term
socioeconomic benefits for the residents of Ipil and its neighboring municipalities.

In light of the foregoing, the immediate passage and implementation of this proposed
measure is respectfully and earnestly sought.

MARLESA “ DOC MARLY” HOFER-HASIM
Representative, 2" District of Zamboanga Sibugay


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS

First Regular Session

8
House Bill No. ____

Introduced by Representative MARLESA “DOC MARLY” HOFER-HASIM

AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A WHARF IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF IPIL, PROVINCE OF
ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY TO SERVE AS A GATEWAY TO BULUAN ISLAND FOR
ECONOMIC AND TOURISM DEVELOPMENT, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS
THEREFOR

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress

assembled:

1 SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “/pil Wharf Development Act."

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to
promote inclusive and sustainable economic development in rural and coastal communities.
Toward this end, the State shall provide for the necessary infrastructure to support local industries,
small-scale commerce, and community-based tourism, in a manner that safeguards the
environment and promotes equitable access,

SECTION 3. Establishment of the Wharf. - There shall be established a wharf in the
10 Municipality of Ipil, Province of Zamboanga Sibugay, to serve as the main transport and logisties
11 gateway to Buluan Island. The wharf shall facilitate the movement of goods, services, and
12 passengers and shall be designed to support both economic activity and regulated tourism
13 operations.


18

SECTION 4. Implementing Agency. - The Department of Transportation (DOT?), in
coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Department of Public Works and
Highways (DPWH), and the Municipal Government of Ipil, shall be the primary implementing
agencies for the construction, development, and operation of the wharf.

SECTION 5. Appropriations - The amount necessary to implement the establishment of
the Ipil Wharf shall be included in the General Appropriations Act.

SECTION 6. Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is declared invalid, the
remainder or any provision hereof not affected thereby shall remain in force and effect.

SECTION 7. Repealing Clause.- All laws, decrees, executive orders and other presidential
issuances which are inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed, amended or modified
accordingly.

SECTION 8. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication
in the Official Gazette or in any newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,