President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the transformative impact of new infrastructure projects during the ceremonial signing of five initiatives of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for Cebu, Bohol, Dumaguete and Siargao.

“Let us remember: These projects are not just structures, they are representative of every Filipino’s dream of more comfortable travel, better opportunities, and a clearer path towards their goals and dreams,” the President said during the ceremonial signing of the projects held at the Malacañan Palace.

President Marcos emphasized the proactive approach needed to bring about progress, saying, “, the future will not simply come to us—we must be the ones to build it. And this is how we will move forward.”

The President outlined the benefits of the New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP), a modern port facility worth PhP17 billion. The project is expected to alleviate congestion at the existing Cebu Base Port.

“Once completed, this will not only make goods more affordable but will also generate thousands of jobs for our people. Apart from this, it will also create more opportunities for everyone as it will provide increased space for port activities,” the President said.

Another key project is the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT), a modern bus network designed to connect major parts of Cebu City. The system is expected to make daily commutes easier and more comfortable for Cebu residents.

For Bohol, President Marcos presented the PhP4.53-billion Public-Private Partnership project to expand the Bohol-Panglao International Airport.

“We will expand the project in two phases: By 2026, its capacity will increase from two million to 2.5 million passengers a year. By 2030, we will reach almost four million passengers,” the President said.

He added the project would not only boost seamless travel for tourists but also create more jobs for Boholanos.

“It is a promise to our beloved people that they will be the first to benefit from the continued arrival of tourists and of investors,” the President said, referring to the BPIA project.

The BPIA is expected to generate PhP15 million in annual revenues in the first five years and an increase of PhP200 million annually by the end of the concession period.

The President also announced the development of new airports in Dumaguete and Siargao, both are expected to enhance the transportation system in the provinces.

“New Dumaguete Airport will create more opportunities for students, for workers, and businesses while the New Siargao Airport will help support tourism and trade,” President Marcos said.

With the support of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the President assured the airports would meet global standards.

President Marcos underscored the broader benefits of the project, stating they would ease the movement of farmers, tourists, and entrepreneurs.

“These projects shall allow our farmers to efficiently bring produce to new markets, tourists to discover more of the charms of these islands, and entrepreneurs to expand their businesses,” he said. | PND