By Alex J. Villanueva, Jr.
THE P3.2 billion expansion of the Puerto Princesa International Airport, which was in the middle of controversy lately, is expected to be finished in 2010.
Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn said that after the airport problem was publicized, the Department of Transportaiton and Communication (DOTC), the national government agency in charge of the expansion, has already sent words that it will speed up its rehabilitation.
The up upgrading of the airport into international standards, Hagedorn added, will further strengthen the city as the commercial center of Palawan and turn it into a premiere destination hub in the country.
His statement came on Earth Day, at a time when the city was hosting the annual Palarong Pambansa for the first time.
He said they are hoping the DOTC will fast-track the bidding for the airport expansion, which is expected to open the door for international flights into the city.
Expansion work in the airport is currently ongoing, but DOTC Asst. Sec. Elmer Soneja said only minimum work is being done at the moment to avoid disruptions in the operations of the existing airport.
He said the bidding of the P100-million for Phase 2 for the renovation and expansion of the passenger terminal airport was scheduled last April 28 instead of May.
The airport has been the object of recent complaints as airline passengers have been complaining of the intense heat at the terminal which has resulted in one death this summer apparently caused by heat stroke.
Conditions have improved at the airport following the mayor’s representation with national government agencies for immediate intervention to ensure continued passenger comfort and convenience by providing a better air-conditioning system.
The mayor clarified that it is not the city government but the national government that operates the airport.
“But we are concerned because it affects the city visitors,” the mayor said, adding: “We are hosting the Palarong Pambansa for the first time and we do not want the young athletes to suffer. Tourists are saying we have a beautiful city with good facilities except the airport. This could affect tourism in the long term if the problem persists.” (PNA)
