The Cotabato Airport Saga: A Chronicle of Vision, Setbacks, and Renewed Hope

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Cotabato Airport, officially known as Awang Airport, has been a focal point of both aspiration and frustration for the people of North Cotabato. What began as a visionary project in the late 1990s has faced numerous challenges, from political rivalries to infrastructural hurdles. However, recent developments suggest a renewed commitment to realizing the airport's full potential.

A Vision for Progress

In the mid-1990s, then-Mayor Manny Piñol of Mlang envisioned an airport as a cornerstone for transforming the town into an agro-industrial hub. With the support of Vice Mayor Luigi Buenaflor Cuerpo, the idea gained traction. However, financial constraints kept the dream on hold.

Upon his election as Governor of North Cotabato in 1998, Piñol prioritized the airport project. In 2003, the provincial government acquired 62 hectares in the former Hacienda Buenaflor for the airport's construction. With a ₱30-million grant from then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, work commenced in 2004. By 2009, the runway and terminal were completed, and President Arroyo attended the inauguration, marking a significant milestone for the region.

Political Turmoil and Stagnation

The airport's progress was soon hindered by political shifts. After Piñol's term, Emmylou Taliño-Santos won the governorship in 2010. Her administration halted the airport's development, citing issues with land purchase documents and the absence of a feasibility study—claims Piñol vehemently denied. Despite Piñol's offer to assist in resolving these issues, the project remained stalled.

In 2019, Governor Nancy Catamco's election brought hope for the airport's revival. Her administration recovered and perfected the necessary documents, and work resumed. However, by 2022, she lost her re-election bid to Taliño-Mendoza, and the project once again faced uncertainty.

Recent Developments: A Renewed Commitment

Despite the setbacks, recent developments indicate a renewed commitment to the airport's completion. In December 2024, merchants expressed optimism over improvements at the Cotabato Airport, noting enhanced facilities that could attract investors from Mindanao and beyond. 

In April 2024, the establishment of Bangsamoro Airways, based at Cotabato Airport, marked a significant step toward revitalizing air travel in the region. The airline commenced operations with flights connecting Cotabato City, Zamboanga City, and Jolo, Sulu, with plans for expansion to other areas, including potential international routes to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

Furthermore, in October 2023, Cotabato Airport resumed operations after extensive runway repairs, signaling a commitment to improving infrastructure and services. 

Looking Ahead: A Call for Unity and Progress

The journey of Cotabato Airport underscores the impact of political dynamics on regional development. While challenges persist, the recent strides in infrastructure improvement and the establishment of Bangsamoro Airways offer hope for the airport's future. For the people of North Cotabato, the airport represents more than just a transportation hub; it embodies the promise of economic growth, connectivity, and progress.

As the region moves forward, it is imperative for leaders to set aside political differences and prioritize the collective good. The completion and operationalization of Cotabato Airport could serve as a catalyst for broader development, benefiting not only North Cotabato but the entire Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The saga of Cotabato Airport is far from over. With continued collaboration and a shared vision, the dream of a fully operational airport serving the people of North Cotabato and beyond can become a reality.