Phl Airports Eye Privatization to Modernize Infrastructure, Enhance Operations

CAAP Director General Raul del Rosario

Phl Airports Eye Privatization to Modernize Infrastructure, Enhance Operations

By Bing Jabadan – Thenationweek.com  

July 11, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – In a bid to modernize aging infrastructure and enhance operational efficiency, the Philippines is exploring the privatization of several airports currently under the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

CAAP Director General Raul del Rosario on Thursday (July 10, 2025) revealed that assessments are underway for the development of airport facilities, especially in the provinces.

For one, Iloilo International Airport is emerging as a key candidate for extensive upgrades and renovations through private investment, Del Rosario said.

The plan aligns with a growing global trend of leveraging public-private partnerships to revitalize airport infrastructure.

CAAP is already collaborating with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to manage critical communication, navigation, and surveillance/air traffic management facilities at Clark International Airport in Pampanga.

The move demonstrates the potential benefits of private sector involvement, Del Rosario declared.

“Our goal is to create a seamless and world-class travel experience for all passengers,” he said.

“By partnering with the private sector, we can inject much-needed capital and expertise to modernize our airports, improve safety standards, and enhance overall efficiency.”

CAAP oversees 48 commercially operated airports across the archipelago, facilitating both domestic and international flights.

However, key hubs such as Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Clark International Airport (CIA), and Caticlan Airport operate under different management structures, highlighting a fragmented approach to airport administration.

Clark: A Case Study in Successful PPPs

CIA serves as a prime example of the potential benefits of privatization.

Operated by the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) Corp. since August 2019 under a 25-year concession agreement with the BCDA, the airport has seen significant improvements in passenger experience and operational efficiency.

LIPAD, a consortium of industry giants such as Filinvest Development Corp., JG Summit Holdings Inc., Philippine Airport Ground Support Solutions Inc., and Changi Airports Philippines Pte. Ltd., is responsible for the airport’s operations and maintenance.

Navigating Complex Airport Management Landscape

The country’s airport landscape is a complex web of management structures.

While CAAP oversees the majority of commercially operated airports, including notable facilities like Bicol International Airport, Basco Airport in Batanes, Zamboanga International Airport, Tuguegarao Airport in Cagayan, and Tacloban Airport in Leyte, some of the country’s busiest hubs operate independently.

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is managed by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority, a government-owned corporation attached to the Department of Transportation.

On the other hand, NAIA transitioned to private management in September 2024, with the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), a consortium led by San Miguel Corp., Incheon International Airport Corp., and others, taking over the operations.

International Gateways: A Mix of Management Models

Despite being designated as international airports, not all are managed by the CAAP.

Iloilo International Airport, which, despite its international status, remains under CAAP’s operational control.

The country boasts a network of international airports, including:

• NAIA in Manila
• Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu
• Clark International Airport, Pampanga
• Laoag International Airport, Vigan
• Puerto Princesa International Airport, Palawan
• Kalibo International Airport, Aklan
• Francisco Bangoy International Airport, Davao City
• Iloilo International Airport, Iloilo
• General Santos International Airport, General Santos City
• Zamboanga International Airport, Zamboanga City
• Subic Bay International Airport, Zambales

Passenger Surge

As CAAP anticipates a surge in passenger traffic during long weekends and holidays, it has committed to providing a smooth travel experience.

With a diverse portfolio of airports under its charge, CAAP’s focus on privatization will be crucial in supporting the country’s growing tourism industry and overall economic development.