12 Mindanao airports up for modernization

TWELVE airports in Mindanao are eyed to be modernized and upgraded to meet international standards as part of the Mindanao Strategic Development Framework (MSDF) 2020 of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda).

The Butuan City Airport in Caraga is targeted to be upgraded as well as those of Dipolog and Pagadian airports in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Neda Davao Regional Director Maria Lourdes Lim during the reintegration consultation for Overseas Filipino Workers at Grand Regal Hotel last April 20, also noted that a new airport in Bukidnon, the Don Carlos Airport will be established under the MSDF.

The framework also targets the development of Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Occidental and the relocation of Zamboanga International Airport. For Soccskargen, the General Santos City Airport will be upgraded together with Central Mindanao Airport in M’lang, North Cotabato, and the expansion of Awang Airport in Cotabato City.

The upgrade and modernization for Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City is presently being bidded out.

Sanga-sanga Airport in Tawi-tawi is also targeted to be expanded with the upgrading of Jolo Airport, both of which are located in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm).

“For the far-flung areas in Armm, there are proposals for the expansion of the airport in Tawitawi as well as the Jolo airport. This is imperative so that far-flung areas can enhance their links to external markets be it regionally or globally,” said Lim.