DOTr prioritizes P21B Villar Group proposal for Iloilo airport rehab

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is prioritizing an over P21-billion unsolicited proposal from the Villar Group to rehabilitate and take over operations at Iloilo International Airport.

During a visit on Saturday, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon assured local officials that the department will fast-track the current public-private partnership (PPP) proposal to ensure sustainable development of the airport.

The project aims to expand the capacity of the Passenger Terminal Building, construct an adjacent apron, renovate existing facilities, and install necessary equipment for passenger services under a 20-year Operate-Add-Transfer (OAT) agreement.

DOTr plans to invest PHP190 million this year while the private proponent is expected to initially invest PHP3.5 billion with a mandatory investment of PHP15 billion.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas emphasized the need for improvements as Iloilo is the second busiest airport in Western Visayas, handling two million passengers last year.

Governor Arthur Defensor suggested building a terminal mall to cater to travelers' needs, while Dizon expressed openness to the concept but noted that discussions with the private operator are needed.