The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is rushing the ongoing expansion works at Cotabato Airport to meet its August deadline set by the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The construction of the airport’s passenger terminal building (PTB) was one of the topics discussed by CAAP director general Manuel Antonio Tamayo and DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista when they visited the airport and met with the officials of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The P45.5 million expansion project which is expected to be finished by August 30, 2023 covers the civil, architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing works.
Once completed, the airport’s capacity will be increased, accommodating 360 passengers at any given time, compared to its previous capacity of 250 passengers.
The expansion will alleviate congestion and provide a more comfortable environment for travelers.
On Thursday, Bautista and Tamayo met with BARMM Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) Minister Paisalin Tago and Bangsamoro Airport Authority (BAA) Director General Roslaine Macao-Maniri and discussed the ongoing repairs and expansion of Cotabato Airport.
CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio said the meeting aimed to ensure the smooth progress of the construction and highlight the significance of the project in enhancing safety and improving travel for the riding public.
During the meeting, DOTr and CAAP officials reaffirmed their commitment to the project by deploying a team of engineers on-site to oversee the construction activities.
“This proactive approach will ensure that the ongoing projects are carried out according to the scheduled timeline,” Apolonio said.
The repairs and expansion at Cotabato Airport is in line with CAAP and DOTr’s commitment to meet the highest safety standards in its airports, delivering a safe, secured, and comfortable airport experience.