President Marcos has welcomed the signing of the Laguindingan International Airport Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Project Concession Agreement, saying it will transform the said gateway into a more efficient and sustainable one that meets global standards.

Marcos said this as he witnessed on Monday, Oct. 28, the signing of the deal, which is part of his administration's drive to elevate the country's aviation industry.

In a speech in Malacañan, the President the concession agreement allows the government to expand the Laguindingan International Airport's facilities, upgrade the terminals, increase the capacity, and deliver services in a safer, more efficient, and more convenient manner.

"Witnessing the signing of this concession agreement is a reminder of what we are capable of doing so long as we remain committed to this common goal – to help improve the lives of our people," he said.

The Laguindingan International Airport, located between the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, serves as an access to Northern Mindanao. Opened in 2013, it caters to 1.6 million passengers annually and is considered Mindanao’s second busiest airport.

According to President Marcos, the project will expand the airport’s capacity to 3.9 million annually in its first phase and 6.3 million by the end of the second phase.

"For most travelers, airports provide a glimpse of what awaits them at their destination; it is an experience on its own. Air travel is already a challenge, but it is now up to us to offer seamless services so that our visitors will feel the warmth and welcoming nature of Filipinos," he said.

"This vision can only be realized through our united efforts and steadfast commitment to work together, to work hand in hand," he added.

Before concluding his speech, Marcos thanked Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC) and the International Financial Corp. of the World Bank Group for their significant contributions in realizing the P12.7-billion project and assisting the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

"We welcome more players and investors who are equally dedicated to helping us deliver quality services to the Filipino people," he said.

Meanwhile, President Marcos urged the DOTr, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the PPP Partnership Center, and all concerned agencies to remain on track in completing and implementing transportation projects.

This concession agreement is considered the first unsolicited proposal awarded by the DOTr during this Administration.

The project aims to upgrade the airport’s facilities and enhance passenger traveling experience through increased comfort and convenience.

It is also expected to create more socioeconomic opportunities in key regional cities and provinces by boosting tourism, trade, investments, and employment.