DOTr eyes int’l status for Siargao Airport

The Department of Transportation (DoTr) is moving forward with plans to expand and modernize Siargao Airport, a long-overdue transformation aimed at accommodating the island’s booming tourism industry.

The airport upgrade is part of a larger vision to eventually elevate Siargao Airport to international status, reinforcing its role as a premier gateway to the world-renowned surfing destination.

"Plano nating gawing international airport ang Siargao. Ang isla na ito ay isa sa pinaka-sikat sa ating bansa, kaya dapat lang na ang airport natin ay makasabay sa lumalaking demand," Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon emphasized.

(We plan to turn Siargao into an international airport. This island is one of the most popular in our country, so it’s only right that our airport keeps up with the growing demand.)

During an inspection last week, Dizon expressed concern over the airport’s deteriorating condition and severe congestion, calling for immediate action.

"Ang airport natin dito sa Siargao, napabayaan ng ilang taon at hindi inayos. Kailangan natin itong i-expand para sa ating mga kababayan at mga turista," Dizon said in an interview on dzBB Sunday.

(Our airport here in Siargao was neglected for years and not properly maintained. We need to expand it for our fellow Filipinos and tourists.)

Immediate upgrades underway

As part of immediate improvements, Dizon ordered the removal of the underutilized VIP lounge to make way for additional seating.

"Siksikan na nga ang ating mga kababayan, may lounge naman dito na walang gumagamit. Mas mabuti pang gamitin ang espasyo na ‘yan para sa pasahero," he noted.

(Our fellow Filipinos are already cramped, while there’s a lounge here that no one uses. That space would be better used for passengers.)

To further ease congestion, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has been directed to remove redundant X-ray machines and implement a modular expansion project — a temporary but vital upgrade expected to be completed within six months.

With 17 daily flights, Siargao Airport has been struggling to keep up with the influx of travelers heading to the island, widely regarded as the country’s surfing capital.

Siargao is just one of several airports set for major upgrades. Dizon confirmed that Busuanga Airport in Coron is next on the list, as the government works to improve travel hubs catering to rising tourist demand.

"Susunod nating pupuntahan ang Busuanga. Ganun din sa Coron—gustong puntahan ng ating mga kababayan at turista, pero hindi pa ganap na maayos ang airport. Titignan natin kung paano ito mapapaganda," Dizon added.

(Next, we’re going to Busuanga. It’s the same in Coron — our people and tourists want to visit, but the airport is not fully developed yet. We’ll look into how we can improve it)