MAHINOG, Camiguin — Getting to Camiguin by sea could soon become faster, safer, and more convenient after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday inaugurated the Benoni Port Light Craft Landing Station, the first facility of its kind in any Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)-managed port nationwide.
The new landing station is expected to improve access for tourists arriving on smaller vessels, strengthen emergency response operations, and support the island province's growing tourism industry.
Marcos also inspected the upgraded facilities of Benoni Port, Camiguin's main maritime gateway serving Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels and inter-island passenger boats.
The President said modernizing ports is key to giving travelers a better experience while helping local tourism and businesses thrive.
"So we can welcome travelers more efficiently, more conveniently, and more comfortably," Marcos said.
Calling Camiguin "a gem in our Philippine map," Marcos noted the island's rising international profile, including its recognition by The New York Times as a recommended travel destination.
He also directed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to continue upgrading ports and airports and remove transport bottlenecks to meet the growing demand from tourists.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago said the Benoni project is the first Light Craft Landing Station in the country's PPA-managed ports, designed to serve small boats used for tourism, emergency response, and other maritime activities.
The facility can accommodate light craft such as fishing boats, skiffs, recreational watercraft, and small commercial transport vessels, making it easier for both local and foreign visitors to reach the island.
After the inauguration, Marcos also led the "Bawat Bayan Makikinabang: Camiguin" program in Mambajao, where national government agencies delivered government services and assistance directly to residents.
