Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC) and the Municipality of Panglao are exploring closer coordination to improve the visitor experience in one of Bohol’s busiest tourism destinations, building on upgrades at Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA).
The initiative brings the airport operator into a broader discussion on how infrastructure, local government and tourism stakeholders can work together from a visitor’s arrival through departure.
BPIA is operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corp. (ABAC), which has invested in passenger areas, airport systems, equipment and other facilities since taking over operations.
The companies and the municipality are now looking beyond the terminal, focusing on how airport improvements can complement Panglao’s tourism infrastructure and hospitality industry.
The discussions involved AIC First Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs Christopher Camba, AIC Airports Head of Tourism and Destination Marketing Blessie Cruz, AIC Airports External Affairs Manager Mox Esperat, Panglao Mayor Edgardo “Boy” Arcay and Municipal Tourism Head Leonides E. Senica.
“The airport is often a visitor’s first point of contact with a destination, so we have an opportunity to make that experience a positive one from the start,” Camba said.
He said AIC wants to understand Panglao’s needs and identify ways the airport can support the destination beyond the terminal.
Panglao, known for its beaches, diving and marine attractions, resorts and hospitality businesses, is a key tourism hub in Bohol. BPIA serves as a major gateway for visitors arriving in the municipality.
Cruz said the airport’s role extends beyond moving passengers, as closer coordination could help address destination needs and create a more seamless visitor journey.
The collaboration could also provide Pangalao a platform for government, businesses, residents and tourism stakeholders to coordinate efforts as visitor activity grows.
The partnership reflects a broader shift in airport development toward integrating gateways with the destinations they serve, rather than treating terminals as standalone infrastructure.
