Tuguegarao: A more modern and more capable Tuguegarao Airport will be completed by December after its rehabilitation by the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

According to Philippines News Agency, acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that the airport's rehabilitation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to rejuvenate regional airports across the country. This initiative aims to enhance local tourism and economic growth. Specifically, the Tuguegarao Airport's modernization is expected to improve regional connectivity in Northern Luzon.

Lopez emphasized the impact of an upgraded airport on tourism and business, stating, "If the airport is modern and well-made, it will encourage more passengers and tourists to visit the province, which would benefit tourism and businesses." The airport's passenger capacity will increase significantly from 212 to 743 once the rehabilitation is complete.

On Thursday, Lopez, accompanied by DOTr Senior Undersecretary Mark Steven Pastor, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Jim Sydiongco, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Raul Del Rosario, and Deputy Director General Danjun Lucas, inspected the airport.

During his visit, Lopez also shared additional development plans for the airport with Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay and other local officials. These plans include new designs for the passenger terminal building, expected to be completed by September 2027, which will add an extra 150-seating capacity.

To ensure compliance with international standards, Lopez instructed CAAP to provide a new and modern fire truck for the airport. Other proposed improvements involve enhancing the airport's night rating, constructing an administration building, and extending the runway to facilitate larger aircraft.