Wazzup Pilipinas!?
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. underscored the immense benefits of the expansion project for the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) during the signing of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) Regional Transportation Projects on December 18, 2024. The ambitious 4.5 billion peso Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Project is poised to boost tourism, create thousands of jobs, and fuel long-term economic growth for Bohol.
A Growing Gateway to Bohol’s Treasures
Since its opening in 2018, the Bohol-Panglao International Airport has become more than just a transit hub—it has emerged as a key driver of economic development in the province. The airport provides seamless access to Bohol’s pristine beaches, eco-tourism spots, and cultural heritage, attracting both local and international tourists.
However, as President Marcos highlighted, “airports must continue to grow alongside the communities that they serve.” With this vision, the government is taking decisive steps to ensure the airport keeps pace with rising demand and economic opportunities.
The Expansion Plan: Two Phases of Development
The BPIA expansion will unfold in two phases:
Phase 1 (by 2026): The airport's capacity will increase from its current 2 million passengers annually to 2.5 million.
Phase 2 (by 2030): Passenger capacity will reach 4 million per year, effectively doubling its initial capacity.
This expansion means smoother, faster, and more convenient travel for tourists—key to sustaining and growing the tourism industry in Bohol.
Boosting Jobs, Tourism, and Revenue
President Marcos emphasized the direct economic impact of the project on local communities:
More Jobs for Boholanos: The influx of tourists will lead to significant growth in the hospitality sector, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and tourism services. This means more employment opportunities for residents and a stronger local economy.
Revenue Generation: The project is projected to generate 15 million pesos annually during its first five years. By the end of the concession period, this figure is expected to rise to a staggering 200 million pesos per year.
More importantly, the President stressed that the true measure of the project’s success lies in its ability to “change lives for the better in Bohol.”
A Promise to Boholanos
President Marcos reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that the people of Bohol will be the first to reap the benefits of tourism and investment. He described the expansion project as a “promise to our beloved people,” a clear indication that the government’s initiatives are aligned with uplifting local communities.
The enhanced airport infrastructure will not only make Bohol a top-tier destination for leisure and business but also attract investors looking to tap into the province’s economic potential.
A Brighter Future for Bohol
The BPIA expansion reflects the government’s broader vision of modernizing infrastructure to stimulate regional development. With improved capacity, better services, and increased connectivity, the airport will become a symbol of progress for Bohol—benefiting its people for generations to come.
As President Marcos aptly put it, this project is more than just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s about transforming lives and unlocking opportunities.
With the continued support of both the public and private sectors, the Bohol-Panglao International Airport will soon stand as a beacon of growth, proving that strategic investments in infrastructure can drive economic and social advancement.
Key Takeaways
4.5B PPP Project for BPIA Expansion
4 million passenger capacity by 2030
Jobs and revenue to uplift Bohol’s economy
A government promise to ensure communities are the primary beneficiaries
This milestone marks a step forward in making Bohol not just a paradise for tourists but a hub for progress and prosperity.
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