Davao Oriental, Philippines – January 14, 2025
The province of Davao Oriental is poised to achieve a significant milestone as the groundbreaking for the construction of Basic Airport Facilities at Mati Airport is scheduled for next week.
This development was announced today, January 14, 2025, during a meeting between Governor Niño Uy, Department of Transportation (DOTr) officials led by Project Officer Engr. Santy Zapata, and representatives from the contractor O.G. Santos Construction-Rakki Corporation. The discussions concluded with the agreement to commence clearing operations within the month, marking a major step forward for the P87.9 million project.
The project will include the construction of key infrastructure such as a Passenger Terminal Building, a parking area accommodating 40-50 vehicles, a Fire Station Building, and an Elevated Water Tank. These facilities are critical to supporting the operation of small jet and turbo propeller aircraft, enhancing accessibility to the province.
Governor Uy expressed immense joy and gratitude for this long-awaited project, which has the potential to significantly boost Davao Oriental’s tourism and business sectors. He emphasized the province’s strategic importance and the challenges posed by its geographic location, situated at the farthest end of the region.
“This airport is a gateway to unlocking more opportunities for our people and our local economy,” Gov. Uy stated. “Its development will address accessibility issues and pave the way for sustained growth and progress in our province.”
As the Chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC), Gov. Uy highlighted the regional implications of the Mati Airport Development Project, stressing its importance in advancing the overall development of the Davao Region. He also pledged his administration’s full support to the DOTr and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to ensure the project’s success.
Gov. Uy also acknowledged the contributions of the late Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, who laid the groundwork for the airport development, recognizing it as part of her broader vision for boosting tourism and the economy of Davao Oriental.
DOTr officials, in turn, thanked the Provincial Government for expediting the land acquisition process, ensuring that the airport site is now fully owned by the Republic of the Philippines. Engr. Zapata assured the public that the DOTr would continue to secure additional funding for future phases of the airport’s development to support long-term growth.
The project, also supported by the local government of Mati City, is hailed as a historic milestone for the entire province. Governor Uy reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the airport’s full operational readiness, foreseeing significant economic and tourism opportunities for Mati City and Davao Oriental as a whole.
The Mati Airport Basic Facilities Project is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic transformation, ensuring a brighter and more connected future for the province and its residents.
