THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) has completed over 50 airport projects as of August, more than double the projects completed two years ago, according to Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.
“As of August 2024, we have completed 53 airport projects, a remarkable increase from just 17 in June 2022, further solidifying our commitment to improving the nation’s air transport infrastructure,” Bautista said during his speech at the 59th Conference of Directors General, Asia and Pacific Regions (DGCA) held on October 14 to18 in Cebu.
These projects include the privatization of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Laguindigan Airport, Bohol-Panglao International Airport, Iloilo International Airport, Puerto Princesa International Airport and Kalibo International Airport, among others.
The Philippines is actively collaborating with the DGCA’s efforts to create actionable plans for the Asia-Pacific region that align with global aviation standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the DOTr said.
“Today’s regional collaboration is especially important for developing countries like ours as we propose an ambitious 87 percent increase in government investment in the aviation and airport sectors. This initiative aims to enhance safety and passenger mobility thereby strengthening national, regional, and international connectivity,” Bautista said.
In line with this commitment, the DOTr said it is strengthening the independence of the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Inquiry Board, whose recent restructuring under the direct oversight of the DOTr is essential for conducting unbiased investigations, eliminating any potential conflicts of interest.
As part of the collective commitment to a safer aviation environment across the Asia-Pacific region, the memorandum of understanding for the Regional Data and Information Sharing agreement within Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand will be signed during the conference.
“By strengthening our partnerships, we are laying the foundation for a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive aviation sector in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond,” Bautista said.
Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and the ICAO yesterday ended Day 2 of the DGCA 59 Conference.
Among the agenda items were aviation safety, air navigation, aviation security and facilitation, the economic development of air transport, and aviation and environment.
Key outcomes from the 12th Regional Aviation Security Coordination Forum—Asia and Pacific Regions and the 34th Meeting of the Asia and Pacific Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group were also discussed during the conference.
The DGCA 59 is being attended by at least 400 delegates from ICAO member states and international organizations.
