Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc., the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, said hands are now on deck to redevelop the P12.75-billion Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental.
In a statement on Tuesday, Oct. 29, Aboitiz InfraCapital said that it will redevelop Laguindingan airport in two phases, with the first phase targeted to increase the its passenger capacity to 3.9 million from 1.6 million for the first phase, and up to 6.3 million for the second phase.
It would also cover the installation of modern equipment, and enhancement of airside and landside facilities, all aimed to significantly enhance passenger experience, boost operational efficiency, and elevate safety and security standards at the airport.
AboitizInfra Capital was awarded to develop the airport after failing to receive challenging proposals from other bidders. Under the concession agreement, the company will rehabilitate the airport for 30 years beginning April 2025.
“Laguindingan International Airport is a pivotal milestone in our strategic mission to elevate the country’s aviation infrastructure. It underscores Aboitiz InfraCapital’s commitment to providing a seamless and efficient passenger experience, and more importantly, driving economic growth in Northern Mindanao by boosting connectivity and tourism,” said Aboitiz InfraCapital President and Chief Executive Officer Cosette Canilao.
“Laguindingan is the gateway to Northern Mindanao, and a good airport will mean a broader business base for Laguindingan and Misamis Oriental. We are more than ready to take Laguindingan International Airport to new heights,” she added.
Laguindingan Airport is the first successful airport public-private partnership project awarded via unsolicited bid under the current administration, and AboitizInfra’s second airport after Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
“We see potential in international flights and want to work closely with the airlines in realizing this dream. We will also work closely with our tourism stakeholders to see how we can further market the offerings of Misamis Oriental and develop a longer-term roadmap. Further, we want to work closely with local and international stakeholders to induce a collaborative and conducive environment for investors,” Aboitiz InfraCapital Vice President and Head of Airports Business Rafael Aboitiz said.
Laguindingan Airport is the country’s sixth-busiest airport and Mindanao’s second-busiest gateway after Davao City’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport.