Aklan: Local officials in Aklan have expressed their gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the enhancement of Caticlan Airport, highlighting the project's significance to the tourism sector and the local economy.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos initiated the groundbreaking and time capsule-laying ceremony for the new Caticlan Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) in Nabas town. He was accompanied by Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines OIC Director General Danjun Lucas, Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores, and San Miguel Corporation chairman and CEO Ramon Ang.
Governor Miraflores described the initiative as a powerful collaboration between national and local governments and the private sector, aiming to elevate tourism and economic prosperity. He acknowledged President Marcos's commitment to modernizing the country's tourism gateways, particularly in Aklan, as a significant step forward.
Governor Miraflores emphasized the growing importance of Aklan in national tourism and reiterated the local government's dedication to upgrading terminals, improving access roads, and enhancing public facilities. He believes these efforts will make every gateway to the province world-class and future-ready.
Aklan 2nd District Representative Florencio Miraflores underscored the project's importance to Aklan's tourism industry, noting that Caticlan Airport is a key entry point to Boracay, which welcomed nearly two million visitors last year. He also stressed the need for an efficient transportation system connecting Boracay and the Kalibo airport.
Nabas Mayor James Solanoy mentioned in a media interview that the project will stimulate the local economy, reducing the need for residents to seek employment elsewhere. In addition to the PTB project, San Miguel has other proposed developments in the municipality.
Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista stated that the new terminal building will enhance services and boost the tourism industry, with the airport aiming to accommodate seven million passengers annually. The two-story PTB will feature a total floor area of 36,470 square meters, six passenger boarding bridges, and 36 individual check-in counters. It is expected to handle seven million passengers per year, with a capacity for 3,000 passengers simultaneously. The project is slated for completion in 2027.
Megawide Construction Corporation (MCC) secured the contract in 2024 to design and build the new Caticlan PTB. The airport is owned and operated by Trans Aire Development Holdings Corp. (TADHC), a subsidiary of San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Infrastructure.
