PHP 7.8B set to upgrade 19 Philippine airports in 2026

The Philippine government has earmarked PHP 7.8 billion in capital outlays this year to fund infrastructure upgrades across 19 airports nationwide, House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan announced Sunday.

Libanan said the appropriations, detailed under Republic Act No. 12314 (2026 General Appropriations Act), aim to improve the passenger air travel experience, strengthen inter-island connectivity, and spur regional tourism and job creation.

“We are counting on these upgrades to enhance the overall air travel experience for passengers, attract more tourists, support the growth of small and medium enterprises, and create additional jobs,” Libanan said.

He emphasized that disclosing the funding breakdown is part of the House Minority’s responsibility to keep the public informed about how national funds are being allocated.

“We are reporting these funding allocations so communities can monitor the progress of airport upgrades in their respective areas,” he said.

Among the top recipients is the New Dumaguete Airport, which will receive PHP 2.5 billion for its development. Other major beneficiaries include Tacloban Airport (PHP 741.7 million), Mati Airport (PHP 700 million), Laoag International Airport (PHP 507.3 million), and the New Naga Airport (PHP 444.6 million).

The full list of airports and their corresponding allocations includes:

• Ormoc Airport – PHP 433 million
• Busuanga Airport – PHP 415 million
• Candon Airport – PHP 350 million
• New Manila International Airport – PHP 200 million
• Catbalogan Airport – PHP 200 million
• Kalibo International Airport – PHP 195.5 million
• Camiguin Airport – PHP 150 million
• Bukidnon Airport – PHP 150 million
• Daet Airport – PHP 150 million
• Bicol International Airport – PHP 150 million
• Central Mindanao (M’lang) Airport – PHP 100 million
• Siargao Airport – PHP 100 million
• Antique Airport – PHP 99.5 million

“These allocations are fully itemized in the 2026 national budget,” added Libanan, who represents the 4Ps party-list.

Some airports will receive additional funding to support night operations, with Busuanga Airport allocated an extra PHP 70 million and Siargao Airport an additional PHP 23 million. Cauayan Airport will also receive PHP 160 million specifically for night-rating enhancements.

Night-rating refers to the installation of lighting, navigation, and safety systems that allow aircraft to land and take off during nighttime or in low-visibility conditions—critical for expanding flight schedules and improving regional connectivity.

According to the Department of Transportation, the budget will be used for a mix of infrastructure improvements, including runways, taxiways, ramps, control towers, passenger terminals, and navigation and safety equipment.

The upgrades coincide with the Philippines’ recent decision to allow visa-free entry for Chinese nationals on short-term visits for tourism or business. China had been the country’s largest source of foreign tourists before the pandemic.

The visa liberalization policy is expected to boost inbound travel from China and increase traffic through both major international gateways and regional airports covered by the 2026 infrastructure program.