BY MARY JOY CAVAÑAS
ILOILO – The push for the Iloilo Airport expansion gains momentum as the Provincial Development Council (PDC) Executive Committee endorsed two resolutions on the matter during a meeting presided over by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. on Monday, Oct. 9.
The initial resolution urges Prime Asset Ventures, Inc. (PAVI) to present all required documentation to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) pertaining to their P6.89-billion proposal.
This proposal seeks to upgrade the passenger terminal building, establish a new apron next to the terminal, equip the airport with improved passenger service tools, and modernize related facilities.
The subsequent resolution appeals to the DOTr to expedite its review of PAVI’s proposal.
Representatives from the National Economic and Development Authority and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines also participated in the meeting.
Underscoring the urgency due to Iloilo’s rapid growth, Defensor said, “What we are addressing here is a very practical concern. Our passenger terminal can no longer accommodate the increasing demand.”
The governor had discussed the matter with DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista in a meeting on Sept. 29, 2023.
PAVI conducted a comprehensive survey of the Iloilo International Airport on Oct. 6. Airport Manager Manuela Luisa Palma mentioned that PAVI had sought several critical documents to support their proposal.
Backing the expansion call, Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas said, “It’s truly time for expansion. The current facility is congested, sometimes passengers struggle to find seats.”
Treñas plans to liaise with the DOTr directly and added, “I am also urging the local development council and the RDC [Regional Development Council] to endorse another resolution to ensure continuous follow-up on this matter.”
The city council is also contemplating passing an additional resolution regarding the expansion./PN
