President Marcos said the government’s push to modernize airports and upgrade aviation infrastructure is central to boosting the economy, strengthening regional connectivity, and expanding opportunities for Filipinos.

Speaking at the celebration of Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) 85th anniversary and the unveiling of its new Airbus A350-1000 at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Marcos said his administration remains focused on building world-class connectivity through sustained infrastructure investment.

“This Administration remains committed to upgrading infrastructure, modernizing airports, enhancing connectivity, and boosting the economy,” the President said Saturday evening, Jan. 17.

He called on private sector partners to continue working closely with the government to advance aviation-centered initiatives that sharpen the country’s competitiveness and support national development.

“These are our investments in mobility, in opportunity, and in national progress,” Marcos said.

President Marcos cited ongoing airport upgrades across the country, many of them being undertaken with private sector participation.

He said a modular passenger terminal building is being constructed at Siargao Airport, while a new international passenger terminal is underway at the Davao International Airport.

Upgrading and expansion works have also begun at Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental and Bohol-Panglao International Airport through public-private partnerships, the President said.

At Caticlan Airport, Marcos said a new terminal is being built to better serve local travelers and tourists, while the modernization of the Manila Airport continues under a public-private framework.

“Equally significant is our collaboration under a public-private framework to modernize, operate, and maintain the Manila Airport,” he said, citing new facilities and immigration eGates that make travel “faster, safer, and more efficient.”

Meanwhile, the President marked PAL’s 85 years of operations, recognizing the flag carrier’s role in connecting Filipinos to the world and in shaping the country’s aviation history.

PAL, founded in 1941, is Asia’s first commercial airline and was the first Asian carrier to cross the Pacific in 1946 and fly to Europe in 1947.

“Through changing times and growing challenges, PAL has remained a steady presence in our national story,” Marcos said.

He said the unveiling of PAL’s Airbus A350-1000 reflects the need to keep pace with a rapidly evolving global aviation industry.

“Taken together, these milestones point us firmly towards the future. They strengthen our aviation sector, expand connectivity, and open doors to trade, tourism, and investment,” Marcos said.

The President noted that the A350-1000 is among the most modern widebody aircraft designed for long-haul travel, featuring new-generation materials that reduce fuel burn by up to 25 percent and significantly cut carbon emissions.

PAL’s first A350-1000 is also the first of its kind in Southeast Asia and the tenth worldwide, opening new possibilities for long-distance routes, including to North America.

“This step complements our efforts to modernize the aviation sector and embrace more sustainable practices for the future,” President Marcos said.

He added that PAL continues to showcase the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness while carrying Filipino warmth and hospitality across the globe.

“Together, let us shape a Bagong Pilipinas where our people are free to explore, where our regions are better connected, and where opportunity is within reach,” the President said.