Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

 

Acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte of Davao City has expressed strong support for Singapore’s Changi Airport to manage Davao International Airport (DIA) through a public-private partnership. His endorsement comes amid ongoing discussions about the future operations of the airport.

 

Sebastian Duterte, speaking from The Hague during a recent interview, highlighted Changi Airport's globally renowned expertise. "Changi Airport has the edge given its reputation. Their expertise in building and running world-class airports is unparalleled," Duterte commented.

 

The acting mayor noted that while the Filinvest and Gokongwei groups had also submitted proposals, he felt their core strengths lay elsewhere. Filinvest is primarily focused on property development, while Gokongwei is known for its airline operations. “Singapore's Changi is amongst the best globally,” he added.

Changi Airport has indeed garnered international acclaim, ranked just behind Istanbul Airport by Travel and Tour World.

 

Despite this strong preference, Duterte stressed that the ultimate decision is up to the national government, not local authorities. "If Changi is truly interested, I hope they are considered. But it's ultimately not up to us locally," he said.

 

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has confirmed that the three companies – Filinvest, Gokongwei, and Changi Airport – have all shown interest by submitting proposals. He further revealed that Filinvest has already put forward an unsolicited bid to develop, operate, and maintain the airport.

 

“It’s overdue for DIA to transition to private management. Our other major gateways, including Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Clark, and Mactan, have already done so,” Dizon remarked.

 

Davao International Airport is the third busiest in the Philippines, after Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The airport plays a crucial role in the country’s connectivity and economic activity.

 

Secretary Dizon expressed optimism that a decision regarding the proposals would be made before the year's end, paving the way for enhanced airport operations and passenger experience.

 

If executed, this partnership could significantly elevate Davao's position as a major travel hub and boost regional development. The involvement of a globally renowned operator like Changi could transform DIA into an airport that matches international standards, offering better facilities and services.

 

For the people of Davao, this move might mean improved infrastructure and potentially increased international connectivity, fostering economic growth throughout the region.

 

This development comes as part of broader efforts to modernise the Philippines' airport infrastructure, enhancing it to meet growing passenger demand and improve the country's tourism appeal. The transition from government to private management of airports aligns with goals to improve efficiency and service quality.

 

All eyes will be on the national government's next steps, as the potential partnership could redefine the future of air travel in Davao and beyond.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-08-27

 

Good news.  Manila is getting better after San Miguel's PPP; a long way to go but there are definite improvements.