Panglao, Bohol int’l airport set for
upgrades after turnover of operations

By Elvira C. Bongosia

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA)—The Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) is set for a P4.53-billion transformation, bringing upgrades to passenger capacity, terminal enhancements, and modern aviation systems under the new management.

This as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on June 16 officially turned over the operations and management of BPIA to Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC).

Dubbed as the country’s “Green Gateway to the World,” BPIA is the third airport in AIC’s growing airport portfolio, alongside Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in Cebu and Laguindingan International Airport (LIA) in Misamis Oriental.

In a statement, AIC said the upgrade would begin in the second half of this year.

“We are excited to officially begin operations at Bohol-Panglao International Airport and bring our brand of operational excellence, innovation, and passenger-focused service to this important gateway,” said AIC president and chief executive officer Cosette V. Canilao.

“This project is about more than infrastructure –it’s about enabling tourism, empowering local economies, and creating more inclusive growth across the Visayas,” Canilao added.

The initial plan includes expanding BPI’s capacity from 2 million to 2.5 million passengers a year within the first two years.

By 2030, AIC targets to further increase annual passenger capacity to 3.9 million.

“This official handover marks the beginning of a new chapter for Bohol-Panglao International Airport. We are committed to transforming BPIA into a globally competitive gateway that reflects the beauty and hospitality of Bohol, while helping unlock its full tourism and economic potential” said AIC vice president and head of the airports business Rafael M. Aboitiz.

Joanne Pinat, officer-in-charge of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office and program manager for Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark, said she expects significant improvements in operational efficiency, passenger experience, and commercial development within and around the airport.

“We express our full support and high hopes for this transformational development. This milestone marks a new chapter for Bohol’s connectivity, tourism competitiveness, and sustainable growth,” said Pinat.

“We expect this transition to drive more investments, create local jobs, and support our shared goals for sustainable and inclusive tourism development,” she added.

Boholano frequent traveler, Engr. Godo Baja, expects the AIC to maintain a strong commitment to the safety and security of passengers, as well as the residents of Bohol.

“I look forward to the implementation of stricter pre-flight aircraft inspections, improved food and dining options, better souvenir shops, clean and fully functional restroom facilities, and an overall enhanced airport experience,” Baja added. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

Over the next few years, the Aboitiz InfraCapital will expand the passenger terminal building, modernize landside and airside facilities, and install new airport systems and equipment at Bohol-Panglao International Airport. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)