Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez led the first “probing flight landing” on the runway of the ongoing Bukidnon Airport project to ensure aircraft landings are safe, smooth, and efficient.

The activity followed the directive of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to accelerate the construction of the Bukidnon Airport Development Project so passengers and tourists can benefit from it at the soonest possible time.

Lopez also inspected the airport’s arrival area, passenger terminal building, runway extension, cargo building, and control tower, which are all expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2026.

The transport chief said the swift completion of the Bukidnon Airport is crucial as it is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits to the province, including stronger economic activity, increased tourism, and the growth of small businesses.

“Inutos sa atin ng Pangulo na madaliin na ang konstruksyon ng paliparan dahil malaking bagay ito para sa connectivity at economic benefits ng mga taga-Mindanao. Kagaya ng ginawa natin sa ibang regional airports, moderno na rin itong Bukidnon Airport para mas komportable, accessible at convenient sa ating mga pasahero at turista,” Lopez said.

Lopez has given airport contractors until 30 November 2026 to complete the construction of all airport facilities.

Jet operations at Bukidnon Airport are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2027.

He also assured Don Carlos, Bukidnon Mayor Alona Ontanillas-Pizarro that the DOTr and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) will work closely with the local government to resolve outstanding concerns, including right-of-way issues.

Once commercially operational, the airport is projected to serve about 425 passengers, providing a significant boost to Bukidnon’s tourism industry and overall economy.