THE operator of Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) is investing P4.53 billion to modernize the facility and increase its capacity to accommodate growing passenger traffic and larger aircraft.
Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corp. (ABAC), which manages the airport under a 30-year public-private partnership concession, said the investment will fund long-term development and upgrades to airport facilities and services.ABAC presented its ongoing improvements and development plans at a briefing and site visit with officials of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev).BPIA general manager Aldwin Uy said current work focuses on restoring critical systems, improving operational reliability and upgrading passenger services.ABAC has restored elevators, repaired baggage carousel systems and conducted preventive maintenance on passenger boarding bridges. It has also assessed uninterruptible power supply systems and maintained passenger weighing scales.Safety-related improvements include inspections of critical facilities, assessments of fire protection systems, runway rubber removal and friction testing.ABAC has also added terminal seating, improved wayfinding signs and provided customer service training for frontline personnel. A dedicated passenger feedback management system has also been introduced.The airport has likewise been upgraded to accommodate Airbus A330 aircraft, which ABAC said could support the development of new routes and improve Bohol’s air connectivity.In May, BPIA conducted a full-scale emergency simulation involving airport personnel, airlines, local government units, medical institutions and emergency responders. The exercise tested response, coordination and recovery procedures during a major airport incident.Since ABAC took over operations, BPIA has handled more than 2.16 million passengers.The company has also been working with tourism and business groups to promote Bohol and develop additional flight connections.“Beyond fulfilling our commitments under the concession, we continue to invest in improvements that strengthen safety, enhance the passenger experience and prepare Bohol-Panglao International Airport to support the province’s continued growth,” Uy said.DEPDev Undersecretary Joseph Capuno said improvements in airport infrastructure could strengthen connectivity and tourism while contributing to broader economic development.“The continued improvements at Bohol-Panglao International Airport show how public-private partnerships can strengthen connectivity, support tourism and improve the overall travel experience,” Capuno said.