By CESAR JOLITO III

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) has allocated P79.6 million for the rehabilitation and improvement of the Dumaguete Airport terminal in Negros Oriental’s Sibulan town, aiming to enhance passenger comfort and modernize airport facilities.

Tieza chief operating officer Mark Lapid announced that the project is part of the agency’s Institutionalized Leveraging Infrastructure Program on Airport Development (iLIPAD), which covers the upgrading of 10 domestic airports across the country.

“Dumaguete is included in our rehabilitation and improvement works. We will repair and enhance facilities to give passengers a better travel experience,” Lapid said during his visit to the airport.

Lapid met with airport manager Allan Punay and officials of the Civil Aviation Authority to review the proposed plans for the terminal upgrade.

Authorities are currently refining the project’s initial design and are expected to finalize the terminal layout and equipment requirements to allow construction to begin immediately.

The rehabilitation will include a redesigned terminal interior, upgraded restrooms, improved arrival and departure areas, expanded baggage conveyor systems, new air-conditioning units, and the procurement of additional baggage carts and passenger seats equipped with charging ports.

An additional P30 million is also being eyed for the construction of a modular second-level expansion, which will be implemented in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Aside from Dumaguete Airport, the iLIPAD program also covers the rehabilitation and improvement of airport terminals in Butuan, Zamboanga, Tuguegarao, Siargao, Roxas, Pagadian, Laoag, Kalibo, and Calbayog.

The terminal upgrade is expected to improve passenger experience and support the continued growth of tourism and air connectivity in Negros Oriental./CCJ, WDJ