In a decisive push to modernize the country’s transport infrastructure, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued Administrative Order (AO) No. 44, directing concerned government agencies to expedite the development and completion of the Sangley Point International Airport (SPIA) in Cavite.
The directive aims to streamline administrative and regulatory processes while fostering closer collaboration among national government agencies, local government units, and private sector partners to ensure the project stays on track.
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Creation of a Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG): Co-chaired by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), the JTWG is tasked with resolving potential project delays and ensuring strict compliance with environmental and technical standards.
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Multi-Agency Synergy: The JTWG includes key departments such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of National Defense (DND), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Justice (DOJ), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and the Provincial Government of Cavite (PGC).
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Regular Oversight: The JTWG will submit comprehensive quarterly progress reports directly to the President through the Office of the Executive Secretary.
To maximize efficiency, AO No. 44 outlines specific mandates for key implementing bodies:
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Department of Transportation (DOTr): Provides overall policy direction, coordinates government actions, and oversees the integration of SPIA into the Greater Capital Region Airport System and the national air transport network.
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Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP): Delivers technical and regulatory oversight—spanning planning, design, development, and operational readiness—including the issuance of mandatory certifications and authorizations.
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Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA): Oversees the project’s reclamation components, reviews and approves reclamation plans, monitors technical compliance, and reviews applicable fees related to non-saleable reclamation areas.
Emphasizing sustainable infrastructure development, President Marcos mandated strict adherence to all environmental laws throughout the project lifecycle.
The DENR and PRA are directed to establish robust monitoring mechanisms dedicated to protecting marine and coastal ecosystems that may be affected by reclamation and construction activities. Furthermore, the JTWG and relevant agencies must secure the availability of the Sangley Point land to facilitate unhindered development.
AO No. 44 takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
