Bicol airports get upgrades

By Keren Anne Bernadas

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Bicol International Airport (BIA) is currently undergoing improvements worth over P28 million.

Cynthia Tumanut, civil aviation manager for the Bicol, revealed that P18 million is being used for landscaping, while about P5.5 million is allocated for the ongoing construction of the airport access road lighting system.

In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has allotted over P5 million for the enhancement of BIA access roads, provision of slope protection, and installation of drainage systems at taxiways, Tumanut said during last week’s Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas.

Tumanut also mentioned that the construction of a shed at the main gate of BIA is in progress.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), meanwhile, has proposed the Masbate Airport Development Project, which will cover 156 hectares in barangay Asid, Masbate City.

The government aims to provide better access to air transportation for the people of Bicol, Tumanut said.

“The new airport is designed to have a runway capable of accommodating Airbus A320 aircraft. It will also include passenger and administrative buildings, a car park, and a control tower,” she said.

Tumanut said the DOTr is also prioritizing the rehabilitation of Daet Airport in Camarines Norte.

The rehabilitation plans include extending the runway, adding a perimeter fence, relocating informal settlers, and upgrading landside facilities, she said.

This will allow for the construction of a terminal area, fire station building, power plant, and control towers at Daet Airport, she said.

Tumanut said the DOTr has allocated approximately P100 million this year for the removal of obstructions and structures at Bacon Airport in Sorsogon City.

This will facilitate the establishment of a new DOTr Project Management Office in Bicol, she said.

These airport improvements will enhance air navigation, ensure sustainable aerodrome development and management services, and maintain a safe environment by implementing modern technology-driven processes and systems in compliance with national air regulations and international standards, she added. (PIA5/KAB)

The Bicol International Airport in Daraga, Albay