DURING the Aquino administration (2010-2016), great hopes were placed in the public-private partnership (PPP) scheme as a means of attracting private sector funds to infrastructure projects.
I recall a previous plan to enhance the facilities of the Bacolod-Silay International Airport at a reported cost of P20.26 billion. Nothing happened. It seems that the private sector was not interested.
Now we are told that Iloilo Airport needs to expand to cater to more passengers. The numbers do not confirm this.
It is reported that the main passenger terminal was designed to accommodate 400 to 450 passengers. Now, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, there are three morning departures involving 600 passengers which is above the current capacity of the main passenger terminal.
This would be true if passengers wait for several hours before boarding their flight. But, in reality, passengers arrive at the airport closer to the departure time. Therefore the capacity of the passenger terminal is sufficient.
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There are a number of airports which are believed by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to be set to be upgraded under the PPP scheme. The PPP Center realistically mentions the importance of the financial feasibility of the potential project. “Also, if it should be attractive to bidders,” according to PPP Center executive director Ma. Cynthia Hernandez.
Well said!
DOTr secretary Jaime Bautista “expects airport expansion projects to be completed by 2023”. In addition to Iloilo, plans are afoot to expand Bacolod-Silay, Kalibo, Bohol-Panglao, Laguindingan, Bicol, Puerto Princesa, Davao, and Siargao and Busuanga Airports.
No mention is made as to whether the airlines have expansion plans which are compatible with those mentioned by DOTr.
We also need inputs from the Department of Tourism (DOT). Does it have data on expected arrivals at the foregoing airports?
It is good that government entities are keen to expand airport facilities.
But we need to be realistic!/PN
