The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Wednesday the successful completion of 53 airport projects as of August 2023, a notable increase from just 17 projects completed in June 2022. Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista emphasized this achievement as a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the nation’s air transportation infrastructure.
Bautista highlighted the role of Public-Private Partnerships in driving innovation and growth. A significant milestone in September included the transfer of control of the country’s main airport to a private concessionaire, paving the way for the construction of a larger and more efficient facility in Metro Manila.
Operational safety remains a top priority, with Bautista reaffirming the DOTr’s dedication to ensuring passenger safety. The agency is restructuring the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Inquiry Board (AAIIB) to operate independently, thereby enhancing the integrity of accident investigations.
Moreover, Bautista addressed the environmental implications of airport expansions, saying that sustainable practices will be integrated into all projects. The DOTr is collaborating with private partners who prioritize ecological considerations in aviation growth.
The Philippines has also signed a memorandum of understanding on regional data sharing with Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, aiming to bolster aviation safety in the Asia-Pacific. Bautista noted that the region is poised to become the largest aviation market globally by 2035, with projections of over 3.5 billion passengers annually, highlighting the significant potential for development within the sector.
