WITH the growing economy and booming tourism industry in Davao Oriental, Mati City broke the ground for the province’s Mati Airport Development Project, which is seen as vital in opening new horizons for growth and opportunity.
According to Mati City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat, the Mati Airport will bring more than just tourists, it will open up opportunities for economic growth. This project will also boost the fishing industry in Mati City and support the agricultural products of Davao Oriental.
"The project goes beyond infrastructure. It’s about creating connections, generating opportunities, and building a brighter future for the city and its people. It will attract investors to both the city and province," Mayor Rabat said.
She said when tourists come in, business opportunities naturally arise, especially in the city and province’s resorts.
Meanwhile, concerning the influx of tourists, Rabat said the city is ready in terms of accommodation but acknowledged the challenge of sustaining investments and preventing closures due to a lack of visitors. The high cost of gasoline for land transportation is also a concern, which is why the airport is seen as a promising solution.
Tanya Rabat-Tan, Department of Tourism-Davao (DOT-Davao) regional director, emphasized the airport's potential to boost tourism, particularly in showcasing Mati's pristine beaches, surfing spots, and eco-tourism destinations to a wider audience.
"Once commercially operational, this airport will be a game changer for Mati and the entire province. It will integrate us into transportation corridors, create opportunities for tourism, and enhance trade," Rabat-Tan said.
She also mentioned that an airline company has already expressed interest in the soon-to-operate Mati Airport, eyeing to explore the possibility of staging flights in Mati City.
“There is always interest because of the offerings of the province, not just Mati City but the whole Province. It’s not just really on tourism but also trade as well,” she added.
Governor Niño Sotero Uy Jr. highlighted the airport's economic potential, noting that it will create job opportunities during both construction and operation. He described the project as a major driver of growth, overcoming the province's geographic challenges as it will connect Davao Oriental to major cities, boosting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Uy called the project a "dream come true" for the people of the province, symbolizing progress and hope. He credited the success of the project to years of collaboration from various individuals, institutions, and organizations.
"This airport will provide significant revenue, stimulate local businesses, and attract new investments to Davao Oriental. This achievement is not the result of a single effort, but the culmination of years of dedication, collaboration, and hard work from many individuals, institutions, and organizations," he said.
The groundbreaking ceremony of the Mati Airport Development Project, which is initially eyed to accommodate an Airbus A330, was attended by leaders from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the DOT-Davao, and provincial and local officials.
The first phase of the project will cater to smaller aircraft, with future expansions to support larger planes. The airport is expected to begin limited operations by 2026, with full expansion and commercial services to follow suit. AJA
