Mati City, Davao Oriental – After nearly five decades, the long-awaited dream of the people of Mati City and the entire Davao Oriental has finally come to fruition. On February 10, 2025, a historic groundbreaking ceremony officially commenced the construction of the Mati Airport, marking a significant milestone in the region’s economic expansion.
A Major Step Towards Economic Growth
The groundbreaking event was led by Governor Niño Uy and City of Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat, alongside representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and other key agencies. The initiative is seen as a crucial step in providing more opportunities for economic progress and improved connectivity in the province.
Project Overview
Expected to commence operations by 2026, the airport project aims to strengthen air travel capacity, offering more convenient, faster, and affordable transportation for the residents of Davao Oriental and visitors alike. The initial phase of construction includes site development and the establishment of essential infrastructure such as a passenger terminal building, an overhead water tank, aircraft rescue and firefighting facilities, and perimeter fencing.
DOTr and CAAP have also committed to securing additional funding for the long-term development of the airport. Future plans include the construction of a modern terminal building, runway expansion to accommodate larger aircraft, and the installation of additional facilities like an advanced lighting system. Once fully developed, the airport’s runway is expected to accommodate various aircraft types, including the Airbus A320.
Boosting Employment, Tourism, and Economic Development
Beyond enhancing transportation, the Mati Airport project is anticipated to generate numerous job opportunities and drive tourism growth. Mayor Rabat emphasized that this initiative is not just about infrastructure development but also about creating broader economic prospects for Mati and its residents.
“The city is fully prepared to welcome more visitors and economic opportunities,” Mayor Rabat stated.
Governor Uy also highlighted that as a province recognized as the Best Tourism-Oriented LGU in the country, efforts to promote tourism will continue through strategic tourism circuits and other initiatives.
Furthermore, Regional Development Council (RDC) XI Co-Chairperson Arturo Milan noted that the Mati Airport will serve as an alternative landing site in emergencies, supplementing the Davao City International Airport. Under Governor Uy’s leadership as RDC Chairperson, RDC XI has expressed full support for the project.
With strong backing from both the government and private sectors, hopes are high that the Mati Airport will evolve into a major aviation hub in the Davao Region, fostering tourism, business, and intermodal connectivity across Mindanao.
A Project for All
Originally initiated in 1976, the Mati Airport has waited nearly 49 years for comprehensive development, which is now finally taking shape.
Governor Uy underscored that this milestone is a product of unity and collaboration among various individuals and institutions. He extended his gratitude to all agencies and past officials who contributed to making this project a reality.
“For decades, this project seemed like a distant hope, but here we are, turning it into reality. This achievement is not the result of a single effort—it is the culmination of years of dedication, collaboration, and hard work from many individuals and organizations,” Governor Uy stated.
“From our previous provincial and local government leaders to the current national and city administrations, from stakeholders and government agencies to private institutions, and most importantly, from every Oriental Dabawenyo—this is our victory. This is all of us!” he added.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by key national and regional officials, including CAAP Davao Manager Engr. Rey Obcena, representing CAAP Director General Manuel Antonio Tamayo; DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista’s representative Jun Lido; RDC XI Co-chairperson Art Milan; Department of Tourism XI Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan; and the Rabat-Rocamora family, the original landowners of the airport site.
During his speech at the Mati Airport Development Project Groundbreaking Ceremony, Governor Uy reiterated that this initiative is not merely a success of his administration but a result of years of dedication and teamwork.
“I would like to emphasize that this achievement is not the result of a single effort,” Uy stressed.
“To all the individuals, parties, and organizations involved, your efforts have not gone unnoticed. This is not about who contributed more or who worked harder. Let us set aside personal and political differences and focus on what truly matters: the welfare of our people and the progress of our province.”
“This is a victory for our people. This is for every Oriental Dabawenyo today and for the generations to come,” he concluded.