President Marcos said that the newly signed agreements for five infrastructure projects in the country will have a transformative impact on the lives of Filipinos, especially those living in Cebu, Bohol, Dumaguete, and Siargao.

Marcos said this as he witnessed the signing of various government infrastructure project agreements, led by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), that aim to promote more comfortable travel and better opportunities for Filipinos.

In his speech during the ceremonial signing in Malacañan on Wednesday, Dec. 18, the President said the projects were more than 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," he said.

"The future will not simply come to us—we must be the ones to build it. And this is how we will move forward," he added.

The five projects are:

• New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP)
• Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT)
• Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) modernization project
• New Dumaguete Airport 
• New Siargao Airport

"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," the President said.

According to Marcos, the NCICP, a modern port facility worth P17 billion 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," he said.

The CBRT, a modern bus network designed to connect major parts of Cebu City, is expected to make daily commutes easier and more comfortable for Cebu residents.

For Bohol, President Marcos said the P4.53-billion Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project to expand the Bohol-Panglao International Airport would boost seamless travel for tourists and create more jobs for Boholanos. The project will undergo two phases.

"By 2026, its capacity will increase from 2 million to 2.5 million passengers a year. By 2030, we will reach almost four million passengers," he said.

"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," he added.

The BPIA is expected to generate P15 million in annual revenues in the first five years and an increase of P200 million annually by the end of the concession period.

On the other hand, Marcos said the development of new airports in Dumaguete and Siargao is expected to enhance the transportation system in the provinces. He ensured that the airports would meet global standards with the support of the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

"New Dumaguete Airport will create more opportunities for students, workers, and businesses while the New Siargao Airport will help support tourism and trade," he said.