DAVAO CITY — With the creation of the Davao International Airport Authority (DIAA), Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc (DCCCII) president Arturo Milan told the Daily Tribune the local business community is expecting major improvements in the airport’s terminal facilities and services to make it one of the premier gateways in the country.

Recently, the House of Representatives approved House Bill 8691 creating the DIAA.

Compostela Valley First District Rep. Maricar Zamora announced in her social media account that the House of Representatives passed on third reading HB 8691.

“This is a welcome development for Davao airport. With the creation of DIAA, we hope to see major improvements in its terminal facilities and services, making it one of the premier airports in the country,” Milan said.

The approval of the proposed bill signals the creation of the board that will have full control of decision-making and budgeting.

He expects the DIAA to contribute immensely to the tourism and trade promotions of Davao City and the Davao region.

The proposed DIAA will undertake the control, management and operation of Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City and future airports that will be developed in Region 11.

Milan said the existing Davao International Airport is not at par when it comes to standards, with its terminal not welcoming to visitors that is why there is a need to address these concerns immediately by way of converting the current setup into an authority with local autonomy.

He also said DIA would allow the Davao airport to become autonomous from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

The approval of the proposed bill signals the creation of the board that will have full control of decision-making and budgeting. It will also have the power to levy and collect dues, charges and fees for the use of the airport and exercise police authority.