DOTr plans to build new airports in four areas

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 3) – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) plans to build more airports under the administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.

"The construction of new airports in Zamboanga, Dumaguete, Masbate, and Bukidnon is being studied," DOTr Undersecretary for Planning and Project Development Timothy John Batan said during the Laging Handa briefing on Wednesday.

Zamboanga, Dumaguete, and Masbate already have existing airports, while a new airport in Don Carlos, Bukidnon is targeted to open in 2023.

Batan added the Marcos administration will also focus on the construction of the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan and the development of Sangley Airport in Cavite into an international gateway.

The adoption of biometrics and self-service check-in counters in other local airports is also part of the DOTr's plans to modernize the aviation sector in the country.

"Our objective in the Department of Transportation is to deliver affordable, convenient, safe, and accessible transport service for our fellow Filipinos," Batan said.

In his first State of the Nation Address, Marcos vowed to build more international airports under his watch to boost the country's tourism sector.