[ Manila Bulletin Online ] April 23, 2008
KALIBO, Aklan — "The national government should have a long-term master plan on Kalibo airport for it has the potential to be a premier airport in the next five years," Air Transportation Office (ATO) Kalibo manager Engr. Percy Malonesio said.
He said the government should modernized the Kalibo international airport in order to make it competitive and reinforce its potential to become a world-class airport.
Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Presidential Management Staff (PMS) Assitant Secretary Fernando B. Cui, Jr., and Vice Gov. Gabrielle Calizo have been discussing the development of the international airport.
Marquez said the airport will require new aprons, passenger terminals, taxiways, a cargo terminal plaza, and extension of runways for the expansion of its services.
Marquez promised to allocate R2 million representing the provincial government’s counterpart in the funding the airport project study that will be submitted to the Regional Development Council (RDC).
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) will do its part to help source out needed funds for the Kalibo Airport’s development.
Likewise, Mayor Raymar Rebaldo expressed support for airport’s infrastructure development.
The airport is currently undergoing an R80-million expansion and construction of its new terminal building to handle the increasing influx of passengers. There is also plan to expand the airport’s runway to 2,500 meters.
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