BACOLOD City – Despite his disappointment over the current state of the Bacolod-Silay Airport, the chief of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) still committed to allocate fund for the airport’s development.
Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo, CAAP director general, visited the airport and inspected the facility on Thursday, Sept. 14.
Tamayo was especially concerned over the airport’s security, management, and maintenance of the airport infrastructure.
“That’s not acceptable to me, that’s insulting,” he commented.
The CAAP chief then gave strict orders to airport staff to improve their measures to ensure that the airport’s equipment and facilities are safeguarded and maintained.
Despite the setbacks, Tamayo committed to allocate P80 million in funds to develop the Bacolod-Silay Airport in 2024.
“With the inspection, CAAP reiterates its dedication to upholding the highest standards of aviation safety and efficiency nationwide, guaranteeing a safe and enjoyable travel experience at all airports in the Philippines,” CAAP said.
Located in Silay City, Negros Occidental, the Bacolod-Silay Airport opened in 2008 replacing the Bacolod Domestic Airport in Barangay Singcang-Airport, Bacolod City.
The airport plays a vital role in facilitating travel to and from Negros Occidental and the Western Visayas region, contributing to tourism and economic growth in the area.
Despite being billed as an international airport, Bacolod-Silay Airport is designated as a Class 1 Principal domestic airport by CAAP.
There have been multiple proposals to develop, operate and maintain the airport through a public-private partnership agreement. (Watchmen Daily Journal)/PN
