MANILA: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is advancing proposals for the development and privatization of several regional airports in the Philippines, including Bohol-Panglao International Airport, Iloilo International Airport, and Davao International Airport. This initiative aims to improve the aviation infrastructure across the country, potentially involving public-private partnerships to facilitate these developments.
According to Philippines News Agency, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista announced during a Palace press briefing that the concession contract for Bohol-Panglao International Airport might be awarded within the year. Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC) is currently the sole proponent for this project. The conclusion of the Swiss challenge on November 11 will determine the timeline for awarding the contract. If no challengers come forward, the contract could be finalized before the year’s end.
AIC could secure its third major airport project if it successfully acquires the Bohol airp
ort deal. The company recently signed a concession agreement for the PHP12.75-billion operation and maintenance contract for Laguindingan International Airport. AIC also operates Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Bautista further disclosed plans to privatize Iloilo International Airport and Davao International Airport. Negotiations with a potential concessionaire for the Iloilo airport have concluded, pending approval from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
For Davao International Airport, the busiest gateway in Mindanao, the DOTr is pursuing a solicited public-private partnership. Bautista revealed that a transaction advisory services agreement was recently signed with the International Finance Corporation to assist in preparing the terms of reference for its privatization.
The DOTr is also collaborating with the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center for the privatization and operation of Kalibo International Airport. Additionally, the agency is working with the Asian Development B
ank to explore privatization opportunities for seven to 15 more airports in the country.