Sea la vie, glow up is real

Hello there, my dear readers! April is a bit jampacked, right? So many things happening and so many prominent people passing. We send our heartfelt condolences, of course, and let us keep their legacies forever in our hearts.

April is really making a statement when it comes to headline events. Speaking of which, April is also the month when tourism is at its peak, hence, the preparations for the influx of local and foreign tourists have been ongoing, especially in the most crowded places like the air, land, and sea terminals.

Last week, during the peak season of Holy Week, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) served over 2,291,666 passengers, a 37.14-percent increase over the volume last year with only 1,670,984 passengers. The passenger numbers are indeed returning to pre-pandemic levels.

That’s why the PPA has long prepared for the influx of passengers through the initiatives of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and the leadership of PPA general manager Jay Santiago. The public can be assured of the maritime sector’s efficiency to respond to the increased demand, especially during the holiday and summer peak seasons.

Speaking of summer, have you guys been to Camiguin? I heard they offer a complete summer experience from the hot, cold, and soda springs to the white sand islets, waterfalls, coral reefs, forests, and the fertile soil in which grow the sweetest lanzones in the Philippines.

Well, Camiguin is an island formed through centuries of volcanic activity so it’s no wonder it offers a complete travel package for all. If you’ve ever caught a ferry to Camiguin, you probably know the Port of Balingoan. It’s that busy little hub where the adventure begins. Well, guess what? It just got a major glow-up! Yas! Not only people can undergo a glow-up, sis!

The new terminal can serve up to 500 passengers (goodbye, overcrowded waiting areas). It is modern, spacious, and finally feels like a proper welcome center for travelers heading to Camiguin and beyond. But it’s not just about comfort. The entire port has leveled up. More RoRo ramps; more room for cars (up to 300); faster boarding, less waiting. It’s efficient and built with travelers and locals in mind.

On 22 April, it was President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. himself who led the inauguration of the new Balingoan Port glow-up. The President saw the newly completed Port Operations Building under the Balingoan Port Expansion Project in Barangay Bauk-bauk, Municipality of Balingoan, Misamis Oriental.

We’re not just talking about a fresh coat of paint, but all new modern features such as passenger lounge areas, gender-inclusive restrooms, childcare and play areas, food concession stands and prayer rooms.

The new terminal enhances convenience and comfort for all travelers. Talk about a full transformation!

Special thanks should also go to APM Fernando Mapalo, engineer Antonio Torcino, Daisy Tangcalagan, Gladys Budiongan, Jurylie Pacturan, Medardo Sosobrado, Ruby Maria O. Gumapon, Edsel Calo, Cassandra Tocao, Ella Bernasor and so many more people at the port who gave their all to prepare for the historical event.

With this, the Port of Balingoan is poised to strengthen the tourism landscape of Northern Mindanao, offering travelers greater access to some of Misamis Oriental’s lesser known yet captivating destinations.

Nearby, you’ve got Salag Dahilig, a peaceful mountain spot with views for days. There’s the Alibuag Spring Resort, where you can swim in freshwater springs surrounded by lush greenery. Or if you’re into infinity pools and chill vibes, Puesto Verde in Sugbongcogon is a must. Better access means bigger tourism potential.

Whether you’re going on vacation for #TravelGoals, going home, or just passing through, you can expect that Balingoan Port is no longer just a stopover but a game starter for a handful of adventures.

So next time, don’t forget to pause and appreciate life and the improved quality of the transport system. For after all, we are all in the same traveling boat!

Stay hydrated folks, sea la vie!