Dahican bamboo terminal controversy has resurfaced after former Mati City mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat defended the P6.9-million transport hub, citing its eco-friendly design and suitability for the coastal community.
Former Mati City mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat has defended the controversial P6.9-million Dahican transport terminal, saying the bamboo structure was designed to be cost-efficient, environmentally sustainable, and appropriate for the coastal character of the area. The project, which has drawn public criticism online, has reignited debate on government spending, infrastructure design, and the use of alternative materials in public facilities.
Rabat explained that the Dahican terminal was envisioned as a functional transport hub that reflects Mati City’s identity as a coastal and eco-tourism destination. She stressed that bamboo was deliberately chosen not as a decorative element, but as a practical building material that is renewable, locally available, and suitable for tropical environments. According to the former mayor, the structure was meant to provide shelter for commuters while blending with the natural surroundings of Barangay Dahican.
The former official addressed concerns questioning the project’s cost, clarifying that the P6.9-million budget covered not only the visible bamboo superstructure but also the foundation, concrete columns, roofing, and labor. She noted that bamboo construction requires skilled craftsmanship and proper treatment to ensure durability, especially in areas exposed to salt air and strong winds. Rabat added that the terminal was built following engineering standards and was designed to withstand coastal weather conditions.
Public reaction to the terminal intensified after photos circulated online, with some netizens describing the structure as overpriced and incomplete-looking. In response, Rabat said such judgments often overlook technical aspects that are not immediately visible. She emphasized that infrastructure projects should be evaluated based on safety, function, and long-term value, not solely on appearance.
Supporters of the project have pointed out that bamboo architecture has been widely used in sustainable developments both locally and abroad. Environmental advocates argue that bamboo is a fast-growing resource with a lower carbon footprint compared to steel and concrete, making it a viable option for eco-friendly public infrastructure. They also noted that using bamboo supports local industries and promotes sustainable building practices.
Despite the criticism, Rabat maintained that transparency was observed during the project’s implementation, adding that it went through proper procurement and approval processes. She encouraged the public to seek accurate information and understand the intent behind the project before forming conclusions. According to her, innovative designs often face resistance, especially when they challenge conventional ideas of what public infrastructure should look like.
The Dahican terminal controversy has opened a wider discussion on how government projects are perceived and communicated to the public. Analysts say the issue highlights the need for clearer explanations from officials regarding project costs, design choices, and long-term benefits, particularly when unconventional materials are used.
As debates continue, the former mayor reiterated that the terminal was built to serve the community and support Mati City’s growing transport and tourism needs. She expressed hope that, over time, the public would see the value of the project not just as a structure, but as a step toward sustainable and context-sensitive development.
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