GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao has voiced firm opposition to proposals seeking to rename the General Santos City International Airport (GSCIA), saying there is no compelling reason to change the facility’s long-established name and identity.

In a message sent to reporters, Pacquiao stressed that renaming the airport would erase its historical significance and weaken the brand recognition it has built over many years.

“Unsa pa man purpose ngano alisdan man gyud? Nailhan naman na nga General Santos International Airport, ngano alisdan pa man?” the mayor said, emphasizing that the current name is already widely recognized locally and internationally.

Her statement came after the 21st Sangguniang Panlungsod, during its regular session on Tuesday, passed a resolution formally opposing any move to rename the airport as SOCCSKSARGEN International Airport. City council members echoed the mayor’s concerns, citing the airport’s identity as closely tied to General Santos City and its role as a major gateway to the region.

The issue gained attention following reports that the proposed renaming was discussed during a recent meeting of the Regional Development Council–XII (RDC-XII). The matter reportedly surfaced during a Joint Advisory Committee and Executive Committee meeting held at the Yñiguez Hall of the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.

Sources within the RDC disclosed that a regional political figure has begun lobbying council members to gain support for the proposed name change. According to insiders, the push may be linked to broader plans involving the future management of the airport.

“Mukhang may kinalaman sa planong pag-privatize ng airport ang mga galaw,” a source said, suggesting that the proposed renaming could influence governance and decision-making authority once privatization is pursued.

Last year, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced plans to privatize the operations and maintenance of 10 additional regional airports by 2028, with the General Santos City International Airport included in the list.

“If it’s SOCCSKSARGEN Airport, then they will have a say in the privatization,” the source added, implying that adopting a regional name could broaden stakeholder influence beyond the city government.

For Mayor Pacquiao, however, the issue remains straightforward. She reiterated that preserving the airport’s name is essential to protecting its identity, history, and established standing, stressing that any development or modernization efforts should prioritize the interests of General Santos City and its residents without compromising the airport’s recognized name.