BALINGOAN, Misamis Oriental — The P430.39-million Balingoan Port Expansion Project in Barangay Bauk-bauk is now operational following its inauguration by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his visit to the province on Tuesday morning, April 22.

The newly upgraded port, a major initiative of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) under General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago, serves as a key transport and economic hub connecting Northern Mindanao to Camiguin, Bohol, and other parts of the Visayas. It is located approximately 84 kilometers from Cagayan de Oro City.

President Marcos delivered a brief message during the inauguration, thanking PPA General Manager Santiago, Balingoan Mayor Aaron Paul Unabia, and Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia for their support in completing the project.

With the modernized Balingoan Port, Mayor Unabia said he expects the opening of more routes to the Visayas.

UPGRADED. A newly inaugurated P430.39-million worth Balingoan Port Expansion project in Balingoan, Misamis Oriental. Photo By Edwin Iyo

“A convenient port that can accommodate many passengers will greatly help increase tourism while providing additional livelihoods for local merchants,” Mayor Unabia said.

According to a statement from the PPA Central Office, the new terminal has an area of 3,082.5 square meters and features a high-ceiling design with seating for up to 500 passengers — a 233% increase from the previous terminal’s 150-seat capacity.

Amenities include passenger lounge areas, gender-inclusive restrooms, childcare and play areas, food concession spaces, and prayer rooms, all aimed at improving the travel experience.

INAUGURATION. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accompanied by Transportation Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon (right) and Philippine Ports Authority General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago (behind), tours the newly inaugurated Balingoan Port Expansion Project in eastern Misamis Oriental this morning, April 22. Photo by Edwin Iyo

The expansion also added a new roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ramp, a larger back-up area, and enhanced cargo handling capabilities.

The port can now dock up to five to six RoRo vessels simultaneously, easing congestion and reducing wait times for cargo and passenger vehicles traveling to Camiguin.

The improved open storage area can now accommodate up to 300 vehicles.

Meanwhile, residents near the town’s bus and port terminals were surprised by the heavy police presence, with many unaware of President Marcos’ arrival.

Notably, no welcome tarpaulins were displayed during the visit.