DoTr working on Calbayog Airport upgrade for jet operations

THE Department of Transportation (DoTr) said it is now coordinating with airlines to prepare Calbayog Airport to service jet operations.

Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez said the DoTr is in close coordination with airlines, as well as the government of Calbayog in Samar to prepare the airport to service jet operations.

The DoTr said the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is set to allocate P60 million for the asphalt overlay of 300 meters of runway.

The agency earlier said that upgrading provincial airports would help reduce domestic airfares by enabling them to accommodate jet operations.

CAAP has also earmarked nearly P100 million for the correction of the runway, which is up for bidding by March, and another P10 million for the airport fencing, the DoTr said.

The precision approach path indicator light will also be installed along the runway to enhance visual, vertical guidance for aircraft during landing in preparation for its night operations, the DoTr said, adding that the new modern tower is set to be completed within this month.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways said it is in coordination with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) for the implementation of Calbayog Coastal Road project.

Public Works Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon said the Calbayog Coastal Road project will provide an alternate route for motorists in the province, while also easing traffic congestion.

In a separate media release, the Transportation department and PPA said they are fast-tracking port upgrades in Bicol, and Samar.

The agencies said the port regulator has now outlined plans to rehabilitate ports in Matnog, particularly the terminal expansion project in the province, while also prioritizing port upgrades in Samar to enhance its maritime links to key hubs. — Ashley Erika O. Jose