DOTr seeks new PPP bids for Bacolod-Silay Airport

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez revealed that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will soon accept new public-private partnership (PPP) proposals for the expansion of the Bacolod-Silay Airport located in Silay City, Negros Occidental.

“My understanding from my latest communication with the DOTr is that the project is open for PPP,” Benitez said.

He noted that while there was an original proponent for the airport’s expansion, the proposal has not progressed.

“I believe the DOTr is set to cancel the original proponent’s status and welcome new proposals,” he added.

Benitez mentioned that at least one firm has expressed interest in upgrading and improving the airport but declined to disclose the company’s name.

“They have visited to assess the airport,” he said.

In 2020, a Davao-based infrastructure firm presented an unsolicited proposal to develop, operate, and maintain the Bacolod-Silay Airport.

This year, a budget of P80 million has been allocated for the airport’s development in coordination with the DOTr.