Aboitiz InfraCapital gears up for Laguindingan Airport takeover with bold modernization plans

Check-in counters at Laguindingan International Airport, the country’s sixth-busiest airport and an Aboitiz InfraCapital airport beginning April 2025.

Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC), the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, is preparing for the official takeover of Laguindingan International Airport in April 2025 by overseeing a carefully phased handover of airport facilities, buildings, and land. This move sets the stage for a major transformation of one of Mindanao’s key aviation hubs.

The initiative supports AIC’s long-term vision of turning Laguindingan—currently the sixth-busiest airport in the country and the second-busiest in Mindanao—into a world-class gateway that fuels regional economic growth, enhances connectivity, and improves the travel experience for both locals and tourists.

“We are committed to a smooth and efficient transition that lays the groundwork for the airport’s modernization. Our focus is on upgrading Laguindingan’s infrastructure to match the rising demands of travelers and businesses,” said Cosette V. Canilao, President and CEO of AIC.

Laguindingan International Airport’s new and expanded passenger terminal building, featuring the airport’s iconic three-dimensional outdoor signage.

AIC Vice President for Airports Business Rafael M. Aboitiz added, “Our goal is to elevate Laguindingan to world-class standards—an airport that not only meets global expectations but also showcases the warmth and excellence of Filipino hospitality.”

The modernization project is a historic milestone, being the first successful public-private airport partnership awarded through an unsolicited proposal under the current administration. AIC signed a ₱12.75 billion, 30-year concession agreement in October 2024 with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

Currently, Laguindingan International Airport operates a 7,184-square meter passenger terminal and a 350-square meter cargo terminal, along with essential facilities such as an air traffic control tower, firefighting station, maintenance buildings, and complete utility systems including power, water, sewerage, and drainage networks.

The phased handover from CAAP to AIC is designed to avoid service disruptions while maintaining operational continuity. AIC is collaborating closely with local stakeholders in Misamis Oriental and beyond to ensure a seamless transition and set the foundation for future development.

AIC’s renovation plans include a major upgrade and expansion of the passenger terminal, the installation of advanced equipment, and the improvement of both airside and landside infrastructure. The project will unfold in two phases: initially increasing passenger capacity from 1.6 million to 3.9 million annually, and later scaling up to 6.3 million depending on demand.

This initiative builds on AIC’s track record of excellence in airport operations, most notably with the award-winning Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), whose Terminal 2 holds a 4-star Skytrax rating and has become a benchmark for Philippine aviation.

Beyond Laguindingan, AIC is also set to take over the Bohol-Panglao International Airport in June 2025 under a separate ₱4.53 billion, 30-year concession. The upgrade includes terminal expansion and modernization of critical systems and facilities to enhance passenger service and operational efficiency.

Together, these projects form part of AIC’s broader mission to develop premium infrastructure that supports smoother travel, stronger regional economies, and seamless nationwide connectivity—all grounded in the signature warmth of Filipino service.

As part of the Aboitiz Group’s techglomerate, AIC continues to harness innovation and sustainability to transform the Philippines’ aviation landscape.

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