In a decisive move to accelerate rural development and secure premier tourist destinations, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued dual directives targeting critical infrastructure upgrades in Nueva Vizcaya and rigorous law enforcement in Siargao Island.
President Marcos Jr. ordered the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to prioritize the immediate rehabilitation and modernization of Bagabag Airport in Nueva Vizcaya. The directive aims to unlock the economic potential of the province by significantly boosting local tourism and attracting high-value investments.
During a Palace briefing on Monday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed the high-level directive, stating that the Chief Executive directly instructed the transportation sector to fast-track the project.
To ensure immediate momentum, Undersecretary Castro disclosed that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) will deploy initial funding from its current budget allocation for early-stage developments. Comprehensive long-term funding for the modernization will subsequently be integrated into the 2027 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
The presidential mandate marks a major victory for the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya, led by Governor Jose Gambito. The local leadership has persistently advocated for the airport’s transformation into a modern gateway, citing its critical role in enhancing regional connectivity and elevating the province’s commercial viability.
Simultaneously, President Marcos Jr. issued a stern directive targeting the enforcement of national sovereignty and public order in Siargao, Surigao del Norte. The President instructed immigration and transport authorities to strictly enforce laws on the island to ensure sustainable, responsible tourism and guarantee the safety of both locals and foreign nationals.
In immediate compliance, Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Viado initiated robust operational coordination with Siargao’s local government units, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), national law enforcement agencies, and private tourism stakeholders.
As part of the operational rollout, the BI will launch comprehensive capacity-building seminars this month for Siargao’s local officials and frontline personnel. These training sessions are designed to heighten awareness of immigration protocols, optimize inter-agency coordination, and streamline proper legal referral mechanisms.
Addressing localized challenges, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has proposed a joint mechanism with the BI to penalize foreign motorists violating traffic regulations. The initiative follows rising complaints regarding foreign nationals driving without valid licenses, reckless driving, and operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol.
The Palace Press Officer emphasized that while the administration remains unyielding in enforcing the rule of law, the Bureau of Immigration will execute its mandate with the highest standard of fairness, professionalism, and respect for human dignity.
Concluding the briefing, Undersecretary Castro reiterated the Marcos administration’s holistic approach to national progress, emphasizing that national security and tourist welfare are deeply intertwined.
