The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is allocating nearly Php 767 million for the rehabilitation and improvement of airports in Coron, Kalibo and Camiguin to enhance passenger safety, expand operational capacity and strengthen air connectivity across the country.
The funding will cover infrastructure upgrades at Busuanga Airport in Palawan, Kalibo International Airport in Aklan and Camiguin Airport.
According to the DOTr, the projects are intended to improve airport facilities, accommodate growing transportation demands and support tourism development in key island destinations.
Among the planned improvements are the construction and expansion of aircraft aprons and taxiways at Busuanga and Kalibo airports.
Aircraft aprons serve as designated areas for parking, loading and unloading planes, while taxiways provide pathways for aircraft moving between runways and other airport facilities.
Expanding these facilities is expected to improve aircraft movement and ground operations, helping airports accommodate more flights and passengers.
Meanwhile, Camiguin Airport will undergo runway rehabilitation to improve operational safety and support more reliable air transportation services.
The DOTr said the airport improvements form part of efforts to modernize transportation infrastructure and strengthen connections between major urban centers and island provinces.
The projects are also expected to support local tourism industries by improving access to popular destinations, including Coron in Palawan, Kalibo in Aklan and Camiguin.
Improved airport infrastructure could help facilitate passenger movement and support economic activities associated with tourism, trade and transportation.
The department emphasized that upgrading regional airports remains an important component of efforts to provide safer, more efficient and accessible air travel throughout the Philippines.
The DOTr has yet to specify the individual budget allocations and completion schedules for the three airport projects.
