Bacolod: The rehabilitation of the Bacolod-Silay Airport has reached 80 percent completion, with plans to expand its passenger terminal building (PTB) scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026.
According to Philippines News Agency, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated during an inspection that the airport's improvements align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to maintain the country's gateways in good condition and ensure comfortable travel for passengers. The expansion project is budgeted at nearly PHP500 million and aims to increase the airport's passenger capacity from 500 to 1,500.
Lopez, accompanied by DOTr Undersecretary Jim Sydiongco, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Raul del Rosario, and CAAP Deputy Director General Danjun Lucas, conducted the inspection to assess the ongoing progress.
In addition to the airport inspection, Lopez joined President Marcos in examining the Banago Port Improvement Project in Bacolod City. During the visit, President Marcos unveiled a ceremonial marker for the new Port Operations Building. The improvements include dedicating the existing terminal exclusively for passenger services, widening the causeway to enhance vehicular flow, and installing a covered walkway.
The modernization of the Banago Port is anticipated to stimulate the economy of Negros Occidental by enhancing services in shipping, transportation, retail, tourism, and related sectors.
