In a display of strong bilateral ties, officials from the South Korean Embassy in Manila paid a courtesy call to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo last 06 July 2023. Counselor Lee Wonsik, accompanied by representatives Kim Jaisuk and Kim Bo Ram, expressed their gratitude for the exceptional hospitality extended to 206 South Korean passengers aboard a Vietjet flight that had to divert to Laoag International Airport due to a technical problem. The South Korean officials commended the prompt and efficient response of CAAP Airport personnel in Laoag. They acknowledged the support of the Provincial Government Unit of Ilocos Norte in ensuring the safety and comfort of the passengers. This visit exemplifies the importance of cooperation between different agencies to provide excellent service to the public.
On the same day, CAAP Director General Manuel Antonio Tamayo, together with Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and officials from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), held a meeting to discuss the ongoing repairs and expansion of Cotabato Airport. The primary objective of the meeting was to ensure the smooth progress of the construction and emphasize the significance of the project in enhancing safety and improving travel for the public.
During the meeting, both DOTr and CAAP officials reaffirmed their commitment to the Cotabato Airport project by deploying a team of engineers to oversee the construction activities. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the projects proceed according to the scheduled timeline. The closure of Runway 10/28 at Cotabato Airport was announced in a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by CAAP, indicating that the closure is necessary for ongoing work on asphalt overlay and runway markings. The closure started last 06 July 2023 and is expected to continue until 18 August 2023.
Among the significant developments discussed was the expansion of the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at Cotabato Airport, amounting to PHP45,542,082.01. This expansion project, covering civil, architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing works, is set to be completed by 30 August 2023. Once finished, the expanded PTB will increase the airport’s capacity from 250 to 360 passengers, alleviating congestion and providing a more comfortable environment for travelers.
The CAAP and DOTr remain steadfast in their commitment to providing safe and reliable air travel services to the Filipino people. The repairs and expansion at Cotabato Airport are a testament to their dedication to meeting the highest safety standards, ensuring a safe, secure, and comfortable airport experience for all passengers.