Caticlan – Boracay Airport Modernization have its ground breaking last June 25, 2011 for another ₱ 300 Billion government spending to have a modern airport in the country's capital tourist destination.
The World's famous Boracay of the Philippines as the country's premier tourist destination, Boracay Island, is expected to boost its economy even more – by an estimated P300 billion at least – with the renovation of the new airport in neighboring Caticlan, jump-off point to the world-famous holiday destination.
President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III, who led the ceremonial switch-on activity in Caticlan last Saturday, said tourism receipts to be raised in the popular beach destination once the renovated airport opens, could be as much as ₱322.5 billion with three million tourist arrivals accommodated by the airport which, in its present existing state, serves some 700,000 passengers per year.
"That's about $1,000 per tourist, with a multiplier effect of five," Aquino observed.
The President pointed out the domino effect that the airport's development could bring to Boracay's economy. He said it will give sustainable livelihood to Filipinos working in restaurants, souvenir shops, and hotels on the island.
Aquino further emphasized that upgrades to be installed in the Caticlan airport, including state-of-the art scanners, computerized check-in counters, and spacious waiting areas, should be able to entice more tourists even as their safety and security are ensured.
TransAire Development Holdings Corp., a subsidiary of San Miguel Corp., is undertaking the expansion and upgrading of the facility which will eventually be known as Boracay Airport within 25 years.
A total of ₱2.5 billion has been spent so far by said SMC subsidiary for the project.
The airport terminal will be re-done to make certain the accommodation of three million visitors annually even as the runway will be widened from 950 meters at present to 2,500 meters.
Night flights to Boracay will also soon be available with the installation of runway lighting and modern night-time navigation systems.
