After nearly five decades, the long-awaited dream of the people of Mati City and the entire province of Davao Oriental is finally coming true. Today, February 10, 2025, marks a historic milestone as the construction of the Mati Airport officially begins with a groundbreaking ceremony.
The event was led by Governor Niño Uy and City of Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat, along with representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and other key agencies. This significant development signals a major step forward in expanding economic opportunities for the province.
The Project
Expected to commence operations by 2026, the Mati Airport Development Project aims to enhance airport capacity, providing comfortable, efficient, and affordable air travel for both locals and visitors to Davao Oriental.
The first phase of development includes site preparation and essential facilities such as:
✅ Upgrading the passenger terminal building
✅ Installing an overhead water tank
✅ Constructing aircraft rescue and firefighting facilities
✅ Building perimeter fencing
The DOTr and CAAP have committed to securing additional funding for long-term improvements. Future plans include: a modern terminal building, runway expansion to accommodate larger aircraft, advanced lighting systems for safer operations.
Once fully completed, the airport will be capable of handling various aircraft types, including the Airbus A320, making Mati a more accessible destination.
Jobs, Tourism, and Economic Growth
Beyond transportation, the Mati Airport project is expected to generate employment for locals and boost tourism. Mayor Michelle Rabat emphasized that this development is not just about infrastructure but about creating more opportunities for Mati City and its residents.
“The city is ready to welcome more visitors and economic prospects,” she stated.
Governor Niño Uy also highlighted that as the Best Tourism-Oriented LGU in the country, Davao Oriental continues to strengthen its tourism industry through tourism circuits and other initiatives.
Moreover, Regional Development Council (RDC) XI Co-Chairperson Arturo Milan stated that the Mati Airport will serve as an alternative landing site during emergencies, complementing Davao City International Airport. Under Governor Uy’s leadership as RDC Chairperson, the council fully supports the project.
With strong government and private sector backing, there is high optimism that Mati Airport will become a major aviation hub in the Davao Region, boosting tourism, trade, and connectivity across Mindanao.
A Project for the People
The Mati Airport was initially established in 1976, but it took nearly 49 years to receive a comprehensive development plan, which is now being realized.
Governor Uy underscored that this achievement was made possible through unity and collaboration among different sectors. He expressed gratitude to all agencies and past and present officials who contributed to making the project a reality.
“For decades, this project seemed like a distant hope, but here we are, turning it into reality,” Governor Uy remarked. “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.”
“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 for all of us!” he added.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by national and regional officials, including: Engr. Rey Obcena, CAAP Davao Manager (representing CAAP Director General Manuel Antonio Tamayo); Jun Lido, DOTr Representative (on behalf of Sec. Jaime Bautista); Art Milan, RDC XI Co-chairperson; Tanya Rabat-Tan, Department of Tourism XI Regional Director; and the heirs of the Rabat-Rocamora family, the original owners of the airport land.
With today’s historic milestone, the people of Mati City and Davao Oriental can finally look forward to a brighter, more connected future. PIO | Photos by JB Rain
