Another significant milestone awaits Davao Oriental as the historic construction of the Basic Airport Facilities at Mati Airport is set to begin next week.
This exciting news broke today, January 14, 2025, during a meeting between Governor Niño Uy and officials from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), led by Project Officer Engr. Santy Zapata, alongside representatives from contractor O.G. Santos Construction-Rakki Corporation.
Discussions during the meeting confirmed that clearing operations will commence in the coming days, with full construction expected to begin before the end of January 2025.
The project, valued at P87.9 million, covers landside civil works, including both horizontal and vertical structures. These facilities will include a Passenger Terminal Building, a parking area for 40–50 vehicles, a Fire Station Building, and an Elevated Water Tank. These essential structures are designed to support the operation of small jets and turbo-propeller planes.
Governor Niño Uy expressed his joy over this long-anticipated development, emphasizing the immense potential of the province for tourism and commerce. “This airport will provide better access for businesses looking to invest in the province,” Gov. Uy stated. He highlighted the unique challenges posed by Davao Oriental’s geographic location and noted that the project would serve as a gateway to greater development for the province.
As Chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC), Gov. Uy underscored the airport’s broader impact on the progress of the Davao Region. He pledged full support for the project, collaborating with the DOTr and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to ensure its success.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the late Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, whose dedication to airport development laid the groundwork for this milestone. He acknowledged her vision of enhancing tourism and the economy of Davao Oriental.
The DOTr, for its part, commended the Provincial Government for its efficiency in processing land acquisition. The airport’s site is now officially under the Republic of the Philippines.
Engr. Zapata assured continued efforts to secure additional funding for future phases of Mati Airport’s long-term development. These enhancements aim to strengthen the province’s economic and tourism infrastructure while fostering regional progress.
With strong support from the local government of Mati City, Gov. Uy’s administration is prioritizing this landmark project, recognizing it as a transformative milestone for Davao Oriental.
“This airport is not just about transportation—it’s about unlocking economic and tourism opportunities for Mati City and the entire province,” Gov. Uy affirmed.
The construction and eventual operation of the Mati Airport signal a brighter and more connected future for Davao Oriental, marking a new chapter in the province’s growth story. PIO
