Daraga, Albay
October 7, 2021

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte marked another milestone under his Administration’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ Program when he inaugurated the newly built Bicol International Airport (BIA) in Daraga, Albay, years after construction works were delayed and the project went through three (3) administrations before its completion.

“Indeed, today’s inauguration is another milestone in the Administration’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ Program. We are fulfilling our mission of improving the lives of Filipinos by providing quality infrastructure projects that allow greater connectivity and mobility, create more jobs and boost economic activity in other regions,” the President keynoted in his speech.

The PhP4.7 billion airport development project is projected to serve two (2) million passengers every year, resulting to a boost in air traffic and tourist arrivals in the region. It sits on a 148-hectare area with a 2,500-meter runway strip.

“The completion of this world-class, state-of-the-art government infrastructure project brings us pride and joy as it will provide better transportation for our people who are traveling to and from the Bicol region,” President Duterte said.

The newly completed airport, which now replaces the old Legazpi City Domestic Airport, also features contactless, self-service check-in kiosks similar to the new passenger terminal building of the Clark International Airport in Pampanga which was also inaugurated by the Chief Executive last July.

The construction of the airport generated 755 jobs and 1,100 jobs are expected to become available once the airport starts operations. Domestic commercial flights begin on 8 October 2021 with two (2) of the country’s major airlines taking part in the pilot run. Domestic night flights are expected to commence in November this year.

With the iconic Mayon Volcano as its backdrop, the BIA is envisioned to be a key infrastructure which will pave the way for Albay Province and the Bicol Region to propel and be transformed into a thriving economic powerhouse, with livelihood and tourism opportunities.

“Let us look forward for a stronger and more vibrant future of the entire Bicol Region and its surrounding provinces. Mabuhay at congratulations para sa inyo,” said President Duterte as he ended his speech.

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