In a strategic move to bolster regional tourism and enhance the traveler experience, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid spearheaded a high-level inspection of Pagadian Airport on Wednesday.
The visit marks a pivotal step in the implementation of the Institutionalized Leveraging Infrastructure Program on Airport Development (I-LIPAD), a landmark convergence project between TIEZA and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
The I-LIPAD program is designed to modernize key domestic airports, ensuring that the “tourist experience” begins the moment a passenger touches down. By upgrading terminal facilities and streamlining services, the initiative seeks to align local gateways with international standards of comfort and efficiency.
“Our goal is to ensure that our infrastructure doesn’t just meet functional needs, but actually enhances the beauty and accessibility of our destinations,” said COO Mark Lapid. “Through I-LIPAD, we are investing in the safety, quality, and service delivery of the Pagadian Airport to better serve the public and invite more visitors to the ‘Little Hong Kong of the South’.”
During the visit, COO Lapid was joined by Pagadian City Mayor Sammy Co and Councilor Lance Co. The officials conducted an extensive tour of the Pagadian Water Complex, a central hub for local recreation and a key asset in the city’s tourism portfolio.
The discussions focused on a holistic approach to development, including:
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Safety Enhancements: Upgrading structural integrity and emergency response capabilities.
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Service Delivery: Improving amenities for both local commuters and international tourists.
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Public Welfare: Ensuring that infrastructure projects provide direct economic benefits to the local community.
The collaboration between the national government and the Pagadian local government unit (LGU) underscores a shared commitment to sustainable growth. By integrating airport upgrades with the development of local attractions like the Water Complex, TIEZA aims to create a seamless and high-quality journey for all travelers.
The inspection concludes a series of evaluations intended to determine the final budgetary and technical requirements for the upcoming development phase.
