BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has earmarked P12.4 billion in its 2025 budget for the modernization and development of key airports, including the Iloilo International Airport, as part of efforts to meet the increasing demand for domestic and international air travel.
The Iloilo International Airport will undergo major upgrades to maintain its status as a key hub in the Visayas.
The improvements include infrastructure expansion, upgraded runway and taxiway systems, and enhanced passenger amenities.
Other airports in the pipeline include the New Dumaguete Airport, which will be replaced and enhanced existing facilities in Negros Oriental.
The Tacloban Airport will see capacity and infrastructure upgrades to handle increasing air traffic in Eastern Visayas.
On the other hand, Busuanga Airport will be modernized to support tourism and economic activities in Coron, Palawan, while the Laoag International Airport will expand its capacity for international services in Northern Luzon.
The night-rated airports in Cauayan, Dipolog, and Pagadian airports will receive upgrades for improved flight accommodations. New airports will also be developed in Zamboanga and Siquijor.
The P21-billion rehabilitation proposal by Premiere Airport Ventures Inc. (PAVI) aims to transform the Iloilo International Airport into a world-class facility.
The key improvements include expansion of passenger terminals, advanced technologies and equipment upgrades, improved runway and taxiway systems, and enhanced amenities for passengers.
The project, structured under an Operate-and-Transfer (OAT) agreement, awaits approval from the NEDA Investment Coordination Committee (ICC).
Once approved, it will undergo a competitive challenge phase to ensure transparency and cost-effectiveness. PAVI, as the original proponent, retains the right to match any competing offers.
CAAP Director General Manuel Antonio Tamayo earlier said that these developments align with the Department of Transportation’s strategy to strengthen regional connectivity, support economic growth across the Philippines, and ensure the safety and efficiency of the country’s aviation infrastructure.
CAAP stressed that this initiative is expected to significantly boost regional tourism, economic activities, and overall passenger experience./PN
