File photo for reference only

 

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has launched an urgent investigation into the emergence of potholes on the main runway of Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), leading to significant flight delays and a temporary closure on Saturday.

 

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon emphasised the need to uncover the root cause of the runway's asphalt deterioration. He mentioned that the last significant repairs were either in 2018 or 2020, raising questions about maintenance quality.

 

“We will examine everything – from the quality of the last repair to the materials used,” Dizon stated during a radio interview.

 

The runway issues led to the closure of Runway 04R/22L from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Fortunately, repairs concluded sooner than anticipated, with operations resuming by 7:30 p.m., according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

 

“By 7:30 p.m., operations were fully back to normal,” CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio confirmed.

 

MCIA, operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital under a public-private partnership, faces concerns over long-term maintenance standards and the quality of previous repairs. Despite private oversight, the incident highlights the critical need for stringent upkeep.

 

Apolonio underscored the safety risks of such infrastructure failings, noting, “Runway potholes are extremely dangerous for aircraft during takeoff and landing. Passenger safety must never be compromised.”

 

During the main runway's closure, the airport’s secondary runway was temporarily activated. Although not officially inaugurated, it handled limited operations for smaller aircraft like the Boeing 737 after passing a CAAP safety inspection. It, however, lacked capacity for larger planes, exposing its limitations in emergencies.

 

In response, the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) instructed airlines to assist affected passengers. “Passengers have rights protected by our Bill of Rights. They can file complaints if needed,” Apolonio advised.

 

The resumption of flights has not overshadowed the spotlight on airport infrastructure vulnerabilities. The DOTr’s inquiry will delve into whether proper materials were used and if regular inspections were carried out.

 

The department has committed to collaborating with the airport’s private operator and regulatory bodies to ensure similar disruptions are prevented in the future. This incident stresses the need for rigorous maintenance checks and improved repair protocols to uphold service continuity and passenger safety.

 

In context, ensuring robust infrastructure standards is crucial for maintaining MCIA’s reputation as a vital regional aviation hub.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-07-14

 

 

Is there an empty brown envelope at the bottom of the pothole?