(RAYMUND ‘MON MON’UY FACEBOOK)
TACLOBAN CITY — The completion of a runway extension at the Calbayog City Airport is expected to improve air connectivity in Samar, as the facility can now accommodate larger aircraft and potentially offer direct flights to Metro Manila, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said.
DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced the development during his visit to Calbayog City on Monday, Feb.2, saying the expanded runway removes previous limitations that confined airport operations to turboprop aircraft.
Calbayog City Airport is one of the few operational airports on Samar Island with an existing commercial route, currently serving flights between Calbayog and Cebu. Until recently, runway constraints prevented the airport from handling larger aircraft capable of flying directly to Metro Manila.
With the runway extension completed, Lopez said bigger aircraft can now safely land and take off, paving the way for possible Manila-bound flights and improved passenger access to and from Samar.
To further enhance airport facilities, Lopez directed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to allocate additional funding for infrastructure upgrades. These include P60 million for an asphalt overlay covering a 300-meter section of the runway, P100 million for strip grade correction, and P10 million for airport fencing.
Calbayog City Mayor Raymund Uy welcomed the development, saying it will significantly benefit passengers and boost the city’s connectivity.
He said the availability of direct flights to Metro Manila would eliminate the need for travelers to go to Tacloban or Catarman, or take connecting flights via Cebu, reducing travel time and costs for residents and visitors.
The mayor added that the improved airport facilities are expected to support tourism, trade, and overall economic activity in Calbayog City and neighboring areas.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
