By Sam Ramos
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in the development of Northern Mindanao during the signing of the Laguindingan International Airport Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Project Concession Agreement at Malacañan Palace on Monday.
In his remarks at the ceremony, President Marcos emphasized that this initiative marks a significant step toward improving the country’s airport facilities and services, especially in the Mindanao region.
“The signing of this concession agreement reminds us of our potential when we are united in our goal—to improve the lives of our citizens,” he stated.
Laguindingan International Airport, located strategically between Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, has been operational since 2013. It serves around 1.6 million passengers annually, making it the second busiest airport in Mindanao.
The President highlighted that this new concession agreement will facilitate much-needed facility expansions, terminal upgrades, and improved services, which will ensure safer and more efficient travel experiences for passengers.
“This commitment to Northern Mindanao’s development will not only boost tourism but also create jobs and enhance business opportunities, contributing to our broader economic growth objectives,” President Marcos emphasized.
The project, set in two phases, aims to increase the airport’s capacity from 1.6 million passengers annually to 3.9 million passengers in the first phase. By the end of the second phase, the airport’s capacity will reach 6.3 million passengers annually.
“For many travelers, airports provide a first impression of their destination. It’s our responsibility to offer seamless services that reflect the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people,” President Marcos remarked.
He underscored that achieving this vision requires collective effort and unwavering commitment from both public and private sectors.
In closing, President Marcos expressed gratitude to Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. and the International Finance Corporation of the World Bank Group for their significant roles in bringing the project to fruition and assisting the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
“We welcome more investors who share our commitment to delivering quality services to Filipinos,” he added. The President also thanked the DOTr, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the PPP Partnership Center, and other involved agencies, urging them to remain focused on completing transportation projects across the country.