THE INCREASING demands at the Iloilo Airport in Cabatuan town underline an infrastructural urgency that transcends mere travel conveniences. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s assertion of the airport’s expansion as an “overdue practical need” speaks to a broader economic imperative. This isn’t just about an airport; it’s about safeguarding and amplifying Iloilo’s economic pulse.
Airports are more than just transit points; they are vital economic arteries. They channel trade, tourism, investment, and provide a critical link to global markets. The smooth operation and capability of an airport is intricately tied to the economic vibrancy of the region it serves.
Ponder on this: Originally designed to serve 400 to 450 passengers, the airport terminal is now tasked with managing more passengers from 20 daily flights. Each flight carries potential investors, tourists, business delegates, and returning locals, all of whom play roles in bolstering Iloilo’s economic fabric. Limiting their influx or providing a less-than-ideal gateway experience can inadvertently hamstring Iloilo’s economic trajectory.
With international flights to major hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong on the horizon, the Iloilo Airport’s capacity becomes even more crucial. These routes symbolize more than connectivity; they represent trade channels, investment opportunities, and lifelines for the many Ilonggos working overseas, contributing back to their homeland.
Furthermore, as Iloilo positions itself as a premier tourism destination, boasting cultural richness and enchanting landscapes, can it truly capitalize on its potential with an airport reaching its limits?
The keen interest from prospective investors such as the Villar group and Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. to rehab the Iloilo Airport reflects a broader confidence in Iloilo’s economic future. Their envisioning of a public-private partnership (PPP) model is testament to a shared belief in melding private sector efficiency with public objectives.
The push for Iloilo Airport’s expansion is more than just about modern infrastructure; it’s a strategic move to ensure Iloilo’s economic ascent is unhampered and that the province remains a beacon of growth and opportunity in the region. The clock is ticking, and the economic promise of Iloilo awaits.
