CAAP Press Release

07 July 2023

Pasay City – Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Manuel Antonio L. Tamayo convened with Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and BARMM officials including Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) Minister Paisalin P. Tago, Bangsamoro Airport Authority (BAA) Director General Roslaine L. Macao-Maniri on Thursday, July 6, 2023, to discuss the ongoing repairs and expansion of Cotabato Airport.

Photo: MOTC Minister Paisalin P. Tago, DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and CAAP Director General Captain Manuel Antonio L. Tamayo, together with BAA Director General Roslaine L. Macao-Maniri, Deputy Director General for Administration Atty. Danjun G. Lucas, and representatives from BARMM, and CAAP-ADMS

The meeting aimed to ensure the smooth progress of the construction and highlight the significance of the project in enhancing safety and improving travel for the riding public.

During the meeting, DOTr and CAAP officials reaffirmed their commitment to the project by deploying a team of engineers on-site to oversee the construction activities. This proactive approach will ensure that the ongoing projects are carried out according to the scheduled timeline. 

The runway closure at Cotabato Airport is a necessary step to improve and enhance safety for the passengers. DG Tamayo said that uneven runways pose potential hazards and compromise the safety of those traveling through the airport. 

In a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) C0643/23 issued by CAAP, Runway 10/28 is closed due work in progress (asphalt overlay and repainting of runway markings) from July 6, 2023, 2:10PM until August 18, 2023, 4:00PM. 

One of the significant developments discussed during the meeting was the expansion of the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at Cotabato Airport. This expansion project, amounting to Php 45,542,082.01, is expected to be completed by August 30, 2023 which covers civil, architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing works. 

With the completion of the PTB expansion, the airport’s capacity will be increased, accommodating 360 passengers at any given time, compared to its previous capacity of 250 passengers. This expansion will alleviate congestion and provide a more comfortable environment for travelers.

Photo: Cotabato Airport Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Expansion Project – Check-in Area
Photo: Cotabato Airport Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Expansion Project – Left Wing Landside Facade

The CAAP and DOTr remain dedicated to their mission of providing safe and reliable air travel services to the Filipino people. The repairs and expansion at Cotabato Airport are a part of CAAP and DOTr’s commitment to meet the highest safety standards in its airports, delivering a safe, secured, and comfortable airport experience.