Despite travel constraints brought about by the war in Iran, Aboitiz Infra Capital (AIC) expects its airport business unit to remain its biggest revenue contributor this year, as it continues to explore opportunities to expand beyond its three existing international airports.
Company President and CEO Cosette Lacanilao said during a media briefing on Monday for the Aboitiz Group’s Annual Stockholders’ Meeting that, despite tensions in the Middle East, its airports performed well in the first quarter, largely because tickets had already been purchased in advance.
“The impact has been minimal and hoping that the war will end so we can continue our growth in the second quarter,” he said.
Lacanilao noted that traffic volume in the first quarter exceeded expectations. However, she cautioned that if the conflict persists, its effects may start to be felt by June.
Among AIC’s ventures, she said, Aboitiz Airports remained the strongest revenue contributor, led by Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The group also operates two other international gateways: Bohol-Panglao International Airport and Laguindingan International Airport.
On potential expansion, Lacanilao said AIC continues to look for new airport projects to add to its portfolio. While the company is planning for further growth, she noted that only a limited number of airport assets may be offered to the market, with privatization efforts dependent on government direction.
For 2026, the Aboitiz Group, through its holding firm Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV), has allocated PHP88.5 billion in capital expenditures. Of this, PHP62 billion is earmarked for AboitizPower to expand its generation portfolio, while PHP8.8 billion is set aside for infrastructure investments, including towers, water, and airports.
AIC is scaling up its infrastructure platform with a focus on asset optimization and disciplined expansion. Its partnership with Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) is expected to enhance capital capacity and bring in global expertise. Key priorities for 2026 include improving airport performance, expanding digital infrastructure, and strengthening water operations through efficiency measures and selective investments.
