Makati city: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez and Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Maria Bernardita Angara-Mathay convened to discuss initiatives aimed at enhancing the accessibility of key tourist hotspots through strategic transport projects. This meeting aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive for the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to collaborate with other agencies to improve connectivity and accessibility across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, the agenda included plans for runway extensions and improvements to passenger terminal buildings at several regional airports. These upgrades are planned for Busuanga, Tacloban, Aklan, Tuguegarao, Siargao, Bukidnon, and Laoag International Airport. The proposed infrastructure improvements aim to accommodate larger aircraft, thereby increasing passenger capacity per flight, which could result in more affordable airfares for tourists.

Lopez emphasized that the infrastructure projects are designed not only to facilitate movement but also to create opportunities for local communities and bolster the tourism industry nationwide. "Our collaboration with DOT is essential to realizing the full potential of our tourism sector," he stated.

The meeting also provided updates on ongoing and upcoming airport and seaport projects, specifically mentioning Siargao Airport, Benoni Port in Mahinog, Camiguin Island, and the Port of Jubang in Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. These projects underscore the government's commitment to strengthening the infrastructure that supports the tourism industry.