The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has secured a P700 million allocation for the development of Mati Airport in Mati City, Davao Oriental, under its 2026 budget. The funding is intended to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel times, and support tourism and local economic activity in the province.

The airport project is expected to provide an alternative gateway to Mindanao, easing congestion at Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City while making the province more accessible to domestic and international travelers. With improved air access, local tourism destinations—including Mount Hamiguitan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Dahican Beach in Mati City; and Pusan Point in Caraga—could see an increase in visitors, generating jobs and business opportunities for surrounding communities.

Authorities stressed that the next step is the efficient implementation of construction and operational plans to ensure that the benefits of the airport reach residents and businesses in Davao Oriental.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who has advocated for the airport’s development, noted that sustained support from concerned agencies is key to keeping the project on track and linking infrastructure investment directly to economic growth and tourism development.

With the budget now allocated, government agencies are tasked with moving the project forward without delays, signaling a potential boost for both regional travel and local livelihoods in Davao Oriental.