Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Pres. Marcos Jr. inaugurates Php1.57B Antique airport modernization, boosting western Visayas connectivity

Fulfilling a national commitment to modernize the country’s transportation infrastructure, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially inaugurated the Antique Airport Development Projects today, January 19, 2026.

The Php1.576 billion modernization project, spearheaded by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), transforms the airport into a high-capacity gateway, poised to drive economic growth and tourism for the province.

The centerpiece of the development is a massive expansion of the infrastructure, designed to provide a seamless and comfortable experience for travelers:

  • New Passenger Terminal Building (PTB): The terminal has grown from a modest 181 square meters to a sprawling 2,224 square meters.

  • Increased Capacity: Seating capacity has surged from 64 to 360 passengers, supported by an increase from two to six check-in counters.

  • Jet-Ready Operations: The runway was extended from 1,430 meters to 1,800 meters, allowing the airport to accommodate commercial jet aircraft for the first time.

  • Enhanced Safety & Efficiency: A new seven-storey control tower replaces the old three-storey structure, providing air traffic controllers with superior visibility for safer flight operations.

Feature Previous Capacity New Capacity
Terminal Area 181 sq.m. 2,224 sq.m.
Seating Capacity 64 passengers 360 passengers
Check-in Counters 2 6
Aircraft Ramp Limited 4 Jet Aircraft simultaneously
Control Tower 3 Storeys 7 Storeys

President Marcos Jr. emphasized that these improvements align with the administration’s goal of enhancing connectivity and convenience across the archipelago. The project was completed through the close collaboration of the DOTr, CAAP, and the provincial and local governments of Antique.

Beyond the physical structures, the airport is now equipped with state-of-the-art baggage handling, advanced flight information systems, and modern passenger amenities, ensuring that Antique remains a competitive destination for business and leisure. “This modernization is more than just concrete and steel; it is a symbol of progress and pride for the people of Antique,” the President stated during the ceremony. “By opening our skies to larger aircraft and more travelers, we are opening Antique to the world.”

The inauguration marks a historic milestone for the province, promising to lower logistics costs, stimulate local businesses, and provide Antiqueños with the world-class transportation hub they deserve.

- Advertisement -spot_img
spot_img

LATEST

- Advertisement -spot_img