Laguindingan: All is set for Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc.'s (AIC) takeover of Laguindingan International Airport (LIA) this month, with the phased handover process laid out to minimize disruptions while ensuring operational continuity.

According to Philippines News Agency, there is no specific date yet for the takeover of operations, but it was scheduled for the end of April, according to AIC's communications manager.

'We are committed to delivering an efficient and well-managed transition process that paves the way for the modernization of LIA. Our goal is to enhance the gateway's infrastructure and services to meet the growing demands of travelers and businesses,' AIC president Cosette Canilao said in a statement on Tuesday.

The phased handover process from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to AIC was aligned with the latter's long-term vision to enhance and modernize LIA, the country's sixth busiest airport and Mindanao's second busiest after Davao City's Francisco Bangoy International Airport.

The Aboitiz-led AIC is working with local stakeholders to facilitate the transition, implementing strategic planning and coordination measures to support future progress not just for Laguindingan, but also for surrounding areas and Misamis Oriental.

'Our vision for LIA is to create a world-class gateway that will drive economic progress and connectivity for Mindanao. This project is a key milestone in our goal of elevating Philippine aviation standards and delivering an exceptional Filipino brand of hospitality and service,' said Rafael Aboitiz, AIC vice president for Airports Business.

AIC's plans for LIA include renovating and expanding the passenger terminal, installing modern equipment, and enhancing airside and landside facilities.

LIA is the first successful airport public-private partnership project awarded via unsolicited bid under the Marcos administration.

The PHP12.75 billion concession agreement allows the AIC to undertake the development and modernization of LIA over 30 years.