President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. attended a significant ceremony at Malacañan Palace in Manila, where he observed the signing of contracts for five crucial transportation projects under the Department of Transportation (DOTr). The event, held on December 18, 2024, marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s infrastructure development, aimed at enhancing travel comfort and economic opportunities for Filipinos.
The projects include the New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP), the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project, the modernization of Bohol-Panglao International Airport through a public-private partnership, and the development of new regional airports in Dumaguete and Siargao. President Marcos emphasized the importance of these initiatives in his speech, stating that they represent the Filipino dream of improved travel and increased opportunities.
The NCICP, funded by the Export-Import Bank of Korea, is set to cost PHP16.9 billion and will be located in Consolacion, Cebu. It aims to alleviate congestion at the existing Cebu Base Port, enhance cargo handling, and reduce logistics costs. The project includes a 1,365-meter access road and a 300-meter offshore bridge, with a completion target of November 2027. Marcos highlighted that the NCICP would not only make goods more affordable but also create numerous job opportunities.
The Cebu BRT, supported by the International Finance Corporation of the World Bank Group, will span 35 kilometers and include a 17-kilometer trunk service, 22 stations, 62 bus stops, four terminals, a depot, and 18-kilometer feeder services. It is expected to serve up to 164,000 passengers daily once fully operational, providing Cebuanos with a reliable and efficient transport system.
The modernization of Bohol-Panglao International Airport involves a 30-year concession agreement with Aboitiz InfraCapital. The project includes constructing a new passenger terminal and other facilities, installing modern aviation equipment, and developing commercial assets. The airport’s capacity will increase to 3.9 million passengers and 35,000 air traffic movements annually by 2030, boosting tourism and creating jobs in Bohol.
Lastly, the DOTr, with assistance from the World Bank-IFC, will conduct preliminary assessments for the new regional airports in Dumaguete and Siargao. These airports are expected to meet global standards and bring positive changes to their regions by enhancing tourism and trade.
President Marcos concluded by stressing the importance of these projects in building a better future for the Philippines, emphasizing that progress must reach every corner of the country.