Leading the opening of a new port facility at Benoni Port in Camiguin, President Marcos emphasized the importance of developing modern, efficient ports across the country.

Marcos led the inauguration of the P86.9-million Benoni Port Light Craft Landing Station and inspected the P171.3-million Benoni Port Operations Building on Monday, July 13.

In his speech during the event, Marcos recognized the recurring issues during peak season at the port. He even cited the selling of boat ticket by unauthorized ticker processors or fixers, taking advantage of toutists.

"For an island like Camiguin, the importance of a modern and efficient port cannot be overstated," Marcos said.

"Because this serves as a vital link that keeps people, goods, services, and therefore opportunities moving— that will enable families to return home, return to their businesses to transport their products, and for fishermen to bring their catch to the market, and tourists to enjoy this destination," he added.

In order to achieve this, the President directed the Department of Transportation (DOtr) to pursue two priorities—eliminate bottlenecks at transport hubs and modernize airports and seaports.

"First, we must eliminate the bottlenecks at our transport hubs so we can welcome more travelers more efficiently, more conveniently, more comfortably," Marcos said.

"We must modernize our airports and seaports nationwide so that our infrastructure can match the demand of our booming tourist industry," Marcos added.

The Chief Executive further said that the new Port Operations Building and the inauguration of the Light Craft Landing Station in Benoni Port "reflect this commitment that we have made to improving all of our port facilities."

According to hims, it further strengthens Camiguin’s primary transport link that connects the province to the Port of Jagna in Bohol and the Port of Balingoan in Misamis Oriental.

The facilities will cater to domestic vessels and handle rolling cargoes, fuel, and other essential goods that support the daily needs of the people of the province.

The President also said that by 2030, passenger traffic is projected to reach about 955,327 while vehicle traffic is expected to grow to more than 155,491.

In addition, the Light Craft Landing Station will provide a sheltered port for fishermen to dock their boats safely, safeguarding their livelihoods, he added.

The landing station is the Port of Benoni's first-ever dedicated Light Craft Landing facility, featuring a new berthing facility, a trestle, and a two-story landing station that provides a dedicated area for light vessel operations.

By separating light craft activities from the main port, the facility improves vessel movement, enhances navigational safety, minimizes congestion, and increases overall operational efficiency while providing a safer and more convenient travel experience for residents and visitors.

Apart from Port of Benoni, the government also continues to develop the Port of Balbagon and the Port of Guinsiliban, to ensure Camiguin’s connectivity and accessibility.