Manila: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will extend all runways in regional and provincial airports to a minimum standard of 2,100 meters to help bring down the cost of domestic flights, particularly in tourist destinations like Siargao Island in Surigao Del Norte. The DOTr's direction is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s order to make domestic travel more affordable to passengers and encourage tourists to visit the country's top destinations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that airports with runways shorter than 2,100 meters will be extended to accommodate jet-powered aircraft, which carry more passengers than propeller airplanes. Lopez emphasized that the DOTr's policy for new airports will require runways to be at least 2,100 meters long to prepare for larger aircraft in the future. He mentioned that airports with topographical limitations, such as proximity to mountains or insufficient land, are exempt from this policy.

In addition to extending runways, the DOTr and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) are working towards equipping tourist airports with night-rating capabilities. This development will allow flights during nighttime or early morning, commonly referred to as 'red-eye flights', which are generally cheaper.

Lopez also engaged in discussions with Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific to reduce one-way airfare to Siargao from PHP17,500 to PHP11,700, with the lowest one-way ticket priced at PHP3,908. Furthermore, the Philippine Ports Authority has constructed a cruise terminal in Siargao to facilitate passenger ferries, providing an alternative travel option. Ferries operated by 2GO Super Ferry offer tickets at approximately PHP3,500.

Lastly, the DOTr and CAAP are considering the possibility of reducing terminal fees for airports under CAAP, which could further contribute to lowering travel costs for passengers.