This August marks a milestone in the country’s continuous pursuit of eco-friendly transportation and tourism — the Philippines’ very first “eco-airport” is set to open in Panglao, Bohol.
According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the new Bohol International Airport was already 90.14% complete as of 30 Jun 2018. To mark the occasion, the DOTr posted photos of the construction site on its official Facebook page last 9 Jul.
The photos don’t show much of the airport’s interiors. We don’t think there’s much to see inside just yet, but it’s a good enough sneak peek. Early on we can already discern one of the airport’s most eye-catching features — an artsy roof reminiscent of the ocean’s waves. It looks like the building itself is leaning towards a pastel palette complemented by earthy colours. How refreshing.
The new Bohol International Airport is expected to accommodate two million passengers when it opens this year. There’s still no news when the exact date will be, but management confirmed their schedule is right on track for its completion in August. Construction began in 2015.
Among the airport’s environmentally-friendly features are energy-efficient, motion-activated LED lights and solar panels found on the Passenger Terminal Building roof, which will supply one-third of the airport’s energy requirements. The buildings within the complex were also designed to make the most of natural sunlight and air, but pre-departure areas, control rooms, and offices will be air-conditioned.
Also read: Bohol Travel Guide: All You Need to Know Before Your Trip
A ₱7.8 billion project, the new Bohol International Airport was made possible with funding assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency. It’s seen as a way of boosting tourism and transportation services in Bohol, one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Currently, the province has one other airport in Tagbilaran City, which is only able to accommodate 800,000 passengers.
Panglao, known for pristine beaches and seaside resorts, is about 30 minutes away from Tagbilaran by car. With a new airport in the area, it’ll now be easier to make your way to the beach destination.
Also read: 48 Hours in Bohol: What to See & Do
