The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has moved a step closer to restoring vital air links between the Philippines and Indonesia.
Following a high-level business mission to North Sulawesi from April 6 to 10, 2026, discussions have officially advanced with Indonesian carrier TransNusa Air to reopen the Davao–Manado direct route.
The mission, which included 30 delegates from the Davao Region—ranging from local chief executives to tourism and trade officials—focused on revitalizing the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area) corridor.
MinDA Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro emphasized that while the airline is ready to resume operations, both parties are prioritizing long-term viability over a quick launch.
“We are making sure that the preliminaries and preparations are worked out so that once operationalization is laid down, all bases are covered,” Montenegro stated. “We are taking lessons from previous engagements to ensure this initiative is sustained.”
To support the airline’s market viability study, MinDA is taking the following actions:
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Data Sharing: Providing TransNusa with comprehensive passenger demand and cargo volume data.
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Regulatory Support: Coordinating with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) regarding BIMP-EAGA support policies.
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Logistical Planning: Determining the specific operational support required to maintain the route.
The business mission yielded several concrete cooperation agreements intended to fuel the commercial demand for the flight:
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Fisheries & Trade: The Local Government Unit of Governor Generoso signed a Letter of Intent to partner with Miangas and Bitung in the sectors of agriculture, fisheries, and trade.
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Tourism Synergy: Stakeholders from both regions agreed to develop cross-border tour packages, creating a seamless travel experience for tourists visiting both Mindanao and North Sulawesi.
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Reciprocal Missions: North Sulawesi officials committed to sending a counter-delegation to Davao City within the year to finalize trade and cultural exchanges.
The revival of the Davao–Manado route is a direct reflection of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda to position Mindanao as a primary gateway to ASEAN. Under the President’s mandate for infrastructure and transport modernization, the administration is focusing on reducing logistical barriers to bolster Mindanao’s role in regional integration.
“We now see stronger private sector interest and expanded economic activity on both sides,” Montenegro added. “This provides the commercial viability needed for this connectivity project to move forward.”
By bridging the gap between Mindanao and North Sulawesi, MinDA and its Indonesian counterparts are not just restoring a flight path—they are reopening a corridor for inclusive economic growth and cultural unity.
