Albay: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is engaging with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to resolve an issue involving transmission lines that currently restrict the full utilization of the Bicol International Airport (BIA) runway in Albay province.
According to Philippines News Agency, DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced during a recent visit that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has been instructed to allocate funds specifically for lowering the height of the transmission lines. Lopez stated that an estimated PHP200 to PHP300 million will be set aside for this purpose, with hopes of completing the project within the year. This development follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to maximize operations at BIA to accommodate international flights and boost tourism in the region.
The BIA features a 2,500-meter runway, but current usage is limited to between 1,900 and 2,000 meters due to obstruction caused by the transmission lines. Lopez emphasized that once the issue is resolved, the airport will be able to fully utilize its runway, facilitating international flights. A memorandum of agreement has been established between DOTr, CAAP, and NGCP to address and resolve the obstruction, thereby enabling the airport to operate at full capacity.
In addition to the BIA runway issue, Lopez also evaluated the Matnog Port in Sorsogon province. The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is planning a modernization program for the port, which is a crucial link between Luzon and the Visayas and Mindanao regions. Planned improvements include upgrading the passenger terminal building to better accommodate passengers and cargo.
Further discussions were held with Albay Governor Noel Rosal regarding improvements and future plans for the Pantao Port in Libon, Albay. Lopez, in conjunction with Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon, also met with local officials from Albay and Sorsogon to review ongoing infrastructure projects in the area.
