By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
Known for their turquoise waters and picturesque views, tropical island destinations in the Philippines serve as bits of paradise that provide Filipinos with a refreshing escape from the daily grind.
However, this comes at the cost of increasing maritime traffic for popular destinations such as the heart-shaped island province of Camiguin in Northern Mindanao.
Acknowledging this growing demand for tourism and commerce, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the inauguration of the Benoni Port Light Craft Landing Station in Mahinog, Camiguin on Monday.
“For an island like Camiguin, the importance of a modern and efficient port cannot be overstated, because this serves as a vital link that keeps people, goods and 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 who enjoy this destination.”
Citing how Camiguin has become a gem on the Philippine map, the President reiterated the two directives that he told the Department of Transportation, which are to eliminate bottlenecks at transport hubs as well as modernize airports and seaports nationwide.
President Marcos Jr. added that the inspection of the new port operations building and the Light Craft Landing Station mirrors the commitment of the administration to make travel convenient, comfortable, and efficient for locals, tourists, and foreigners alike.
Serving as the gateway to the island province known for its volcanoes and various tourist destinations, Port Benoni receives vessels from the seaports of Jagna, Bohol and Balingoan, Misamis Oriental, thus also catering rolling cargo, fuel, and other essential goods for the survival of the island’s residents.
By 2030, the new infrastructure is expected to handle up to 950,000 passengers, as well as more than 150,000 vehicles arriving via roll-on, roll-off (RORO) vessels.
The Chief Executive concluded, “Wherever your journey may take, may the port of Benoni always remain a gateway that welcomes you home, opens new opportunities, and does so for generations to come.”
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