The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is moving swiftly to develop regional airports through public-private partnerships (PPP) to enhance tourism and connectivity. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon announced that efforts are underway to expedite the P21-billion proposal from the Villar Group’s Prime Asset Ventures Inc. Consortium for the refurbishment and operation of Iloilo International Airport.

During his inspection at the said airport on Saturday, Dizon said: "We assured the mayor and the governor [of Iloilo] that DOTr will fast-track the current PPP proposal from the Villar Group’s to ensure sustainable development and growth of the airport to support the growth of the city."

Earlier, the newly-appointed DoTr chief said the P21.16-billion Iloilo International Airport was being approved by the the National Economic and Development Authority.

According to Dizon, the rehabilitation plan includes expanding the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) to accommodate a growing number of travelers in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. Additional improvements include the construction of an apron adjacent to the PTB extension, renovation and maintenance of the existing terminal building, installation of modern equipment for passenger services, and the long-term operation and maintenance of terminal facilities and equipment throughout the concession period.

Dizon reaffirmed that the DOTr, along with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), remains dedicated to improving regional airport infrastructure.

“DOTr-CAAP remains committed to developing safer, more efficient, and passenger-friendly airports nationwide, reinforcing the role of regional aviation hubs in fostering economic progress and connectivity,” he said.

Following their visit to Iloilo, the DOTr team flew to Bohol to inspect the modernization efforts at Bohol-Panglao International Airport, which is currently operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc.

After the airport inspections, Dizon, along with Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago, assessed the ongoing development at the Visayas Container Terminal (VCT). The terminal, managed by the Enrique Razon-led International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), operates under a concession agreement with the PPA.

In Western Visayas, the PPA is overseeing several port development initiatives, including the construction of a Crane Railway and the installation of a Quay Crane at the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex. Other projects include the construction of a Cruise Ship Port in Buruanga, Aklan, and the Alegria Port Development Project, which aims to enhance maritime transport in the region.

In Bohol, the PPA is currently expanding key ports, including the Port of Tagbilaran, Port of Jagna, and Port of Tapal. Another major project involves the expansion of the Cruise Ship Port in Catagbacan, Loon, Bohol, which is expected to boost the province’s tourism industry.

The DOTr team later traveled to Cebu, where they met with local government officials to discuss additional transportation projects in the province. The series of inspections and project evaluations underscore the DOTr’s commitment to enhancing regional infrastructure, improving travel efficiency, and supporting economic growth in Visayas.