DOTr chief Bautista: Gov't working for privatization of more airports

The Philippine government is working on privatization of more airports in the country.

This was mentioned Monday by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista after the signing of the Laguindingan International Airport Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and Project Concession Agreement at the President’s Hall.

Bautista said this includes the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, the Davao International Airport, and the Iloilo International Airport.

''Right now, we are working on the unsolicited proposals for Bohol-Panglao International Airport. Iyong Swiss challenge period will end November 11 for the Bohol-Panglao International Airport,'' Bautista said.

''We are also looking at the privatization of the Iloilo International Airport. We’re working closely with a possible concessionaire. In fact, natapos na iyong aming negotiation ‘no, and we will just need to get NEDA approval for this project,'' he added.

''We’re also working for a possible solicited PPP for the Davao International Airport. In fact, a few weeks ago, we signed a transaction advisory services agreement with International Finance Corporation for them to assist us in preparing the terms of reference for the privatization of the Davao International Airport,'' Bautista said.

Further, Bautista said the government is also working for the privatization and operation as well as the maintenance of the Kalibo International Airport.

''So we’re also working with ADB for privatization of possible seven to fifteen more airports in the country,'' Bautista said.

To recall, the PPP project for the upgrade, expansion, operations, and maintenance of Laguindingan Airport was approved by the NEDA Board in July 2023.

It aims to improve the airport over a period of 30 years and undertake two phases of capacity augmentation to meet the increasing demand.

The said project aims to support the government's effort to enhance regional development and promote tourism in northern Mindanao and its neighboring regions. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News