Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon conducted a series of inspections in various ports in the Visayas and Mindanao amid growing requirements for logistics and passenger traffic in the region.
Dizon together with DOTr undersecretaries and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Santiago first stop was Iloilo International Airport and Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), which is operated by concessionaire International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), on March 8, 2025.
Dizon held discussions with officials of the DOTr, PPA, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and local officials to improve transportation infrastructure in Iloilo.
VCT is an important gateway for international shipping trade in the region. PPA has also prioritized projects such as the construction of Crane Railway at Installation of Quay Crane of Iloilo Commercial Port Complex, Construction of Cruise Ship Port in Buruanga, Aklan, and the Alegria Port Development Project.
From Iloilo, Dizon’s team proceeded to Bohol-Panglao International Airport, which is undergoing modernization.
The PPA in Bohol is also also expanding port developments in Tagbilaran, Jagna, and Tapal. Also in the plan is the expansion of the Cruise Ship Port in Catagbacan, Loon to support cruise tourism in the province.
Dizon’s team also inspected the Benoni Port and Balbagon Port in Camiguin. Balbagon Port is geared among the dedicated cruise ship terminals in the country. It can accommodate international cruise vessels.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago showed the ongoing improvements in the construction of the cruise terminal, including the RC Wharf, RC Platform, and Access Trestle.
Once completed, it is expected to boost tourism in Camiguin, providing better access for travelers and supporting the local economy.
The DOTr delegation proceeded to some Mindanao ports, including Tigtabon Community Port sa Tigtabon Island, Zamboanga City and Jubang Cruise Ship Port in Jubang, Dapa, Siargao Islands.
Dizon also inspected the airport facilities in these islands.
