10 Philippine Airports Set for Privatisation by 2028

Ever felt frustrated while flying through a crowded airport in the Philippines? That might soon change. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is planning to privatise ten more airports around the country by 2028, and it could totally change the travel experience for local and international passengers.

Also read: NAIA Is Getting a Major Upgrade With Facial Recognition E-Gates by 2025

What’s the big plan?

Transport Secretary Vince Dizon recently announced that the government aims to partner with private companies to improve airport operations across the country. His vision is simple but bold. Every island and province in the Philippines should have access to a decent airport. Whether it is for tourism, logistics, or disaster response, airports play a key role in keeping our country connected.

And the best part? The upgrades could bring faster service, more reliable flights, and smoother journeys for everyone.

Which airports are being considered?

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Here are the ten airports that the DOTr is targeting for public and private partnerships:

Iloilo

Davao

Siargao

Laoag

Busuanga

Bicol

Tacloban

Bacolod Silay

General Santos

Puerto Princesa

These are all important airports for tourism and regional travel. Improving these facilities means easier access to local destinations and a better overall travel experience, especially for those flying in and out of popular spots like Siargao and Palawan.

What’s happening first?

Among the list, Iloilo Airport is already making moves. A proposal from the Villar Group to manage and develop the airport has been submitted to the government and is now under review.

To attract more private investors, the DOTr is looking at a strategy called airport bundling. This means grouping smaller airports together to make them more financially viable. International organisations like the Asian Development Bank and the International Finance Corporation are backing this approach.

Why should travellers care?

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This move could lead to a much better travel experience. Many of us have dealt with flight delays, limited terminal space, or confusing check-in processes. But with private sector investment, we could soon see upgraded facilities, better management, and quicker services.

More than that, good airports can boost local tourism. Imagine arriving in a clean, efficient airport in Puerto Princesa then heading straight to the beach without any hassle. First impressions matter, especially when you are travelling somewhere new.

What has already changed?

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This is not the first time the DOTr has teamed up with private companies to run airports. So far, seven airports are already operating under public and private partnerships. These include:

Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which has been managed by New NAIA Infra Corporation since September 2024

Mactan Cebu International Airport

Clark International Airport

Bohol Panglao International Airport, now operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital as of June 2025

Laguindingan Airport

Caticlan Airport

The upcoming New Manila International Airport

These partnerships are already showing results. For example, Aboitiz InfraCapital has plans to expand Bohol Panglao’s passenger capacity from two million to almost four million by 2030.

What this means for your future trips

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If you are someone who loves exploring the Philippines or travelling for work or school, this is something to watch. Better airports could mean shorter waiting times, improved customer service, and even more affordable flights if operations become more efficient.

So next time you book a flight to Busuanga, Tacloban, or Bacolod, you might just notice a big difference. The local airport experience could be getting a much-needed glow-up, and your next trip might be a lot more enjoyable than the last.

Also read: Why Travelling in Your Own Country Might Be Your Next Best Move

In summary

The DOTr wants to privatise ten more Philippine airports by 2028 to improve local travel. With better infrastructure and management, airports in Iloilo, Siargao, and other popular areas may soon offer smoother and more convenient journeys. It is a move that could boost tourism and make flying around the country a whole lot better.