President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday inspected the newly modernized Banago Port in Bacolod City, describing it as the new design standard for port terminals nationwide.

Marcos led the unveiling of the project marker and toured the upgraded facilities together with Department of Transportation (DOTr) Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago.

“This is now going to be the standard design for our terminals, for our ports around the country,” the President said, noting that uniform layouts will help passengers easily navigate port facilities, from ticketing to boarding areas.

The modernization project includes a new Port Operations Building (POB), a widened causeway for improved vehicle flow, an expanded operational area for cargo handling, and a covered walkway for weather protection. 

The new passenger terminal located on the POB’s first floor increases capacity from 50 to 500 travelers daily.

Marcos said the improvements would enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.

According to the PPA, Banago Port is a key hub for passenger travel, roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations, and the movement of goods such as sugar, rice, and corn in Western Visayas. 

The upgraded port is also expected to improve access to popular tourist destinations, including Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary, Patag in Silay City, and Lakawon Island.

PPA General Manager Santiago said the President’s visit underscores his administration’s commitment to improving transportation facilities across the Negros Island Region.

“Makikita din niya na ito ang resulta ng kanyang vision, ito ang resulta ng kanyang mandato na magbigay o maghandog ng mas moderno, mas kumportable, at mas ligtas na mga pasilidad for transportation para ating mga kababayan (He can now see the results of his vision and mandate to provide more modern, comfortable, and safer transportation facilities for Filipino travelers),” Santiago said.

Santiago added that other ports in Negros Island are slated for upgrades to further improve services for passengers and port workers.