[ Manila Bulletin Online ] November 21, 2008
By FERDINAND CASTRO
CAMP EFIGENIO NAVARRO, Oriental Mindoro -- President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo inaugurated last Monday the newly-rehabilitated Busuanga Airport in Palawan which is touted as a new gateway to the many popular tourist destinations on the island province.
The President formally renamed Busuanga to Francisco B Reyes Airport based on Proclamation No. 1665 during the inauguration rites. The inauguration was described as an early Christmas gift to the people since the airport would facilitate uninterrupted and efficient public service.
Mrs. Arroyo earlier ordered the upgrading of Busuanga Airport, one of the government’s priority projects mentioned in her 2006 State of the Nation Address, to boost tourism and trade in Palawan.
Chief Supt. Louie Palmera, director of the Police Regional Office 4-B, said the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) earmarked $ 3 million for the rehabilitation of Busuanga, which serves as the gateway to nearby Calamian Group of Islands and other Northern Palawan wonders. The government put up a P60 million counterpart fund.
Palmera said the new airport could accommodate bigger aircraft while the terminal can serve 300 passengers. Prior to the renovation, only light propeller planes were allowed to bring in visitors to the island and only 50 people can use the terminal at a time.
Palawan Police Provincial Director Senior Supt. Nilo Anzo, said the rehabilitated airport will encourage more tourists to visit the beautiful destinations in Palawan, including Coron, which would provide more job opportunities to residents.
