DAVAO — Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang renewed his push for the full operationalization of Mati Airport during a high-level meeting with Department of Transportation and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines officials on October 1, 2026. The Mindanao Development Authority facilitated the gathering, bringing national aviation leaders and local officials together to chart the airport's path forward.
A Gateway to Eastern Davao's Treasures
The discussions underscored Mati Airport's strategic importance to Davao Oriental and the eastern portion of the Davao Region. Officials highlighted its potential as a major tourism gateway that could provide more direct access to Mount Hamiguitan, Dahican, Pusan Point, Cape San Agustin, Aliwagwag Falls, and the Subangan Museum and Tourism Complex.
Once fully operational, the airport could serve as an alternative aviation access point to Davao City. It would complement Davao International Airport and improve connectivity throughout the eastern region. This added access promises to support tourism enterprises and communities across the province while making destinations more accessible to domestic and international travelers.
The P700-Million Runway Rehabilitation
A key item discussed was the P700-million allocation under the General Appropriations Act for the full rehabilitation of the airport's runway. The initiative was advanced through the efforts of Congressman Cheeno Miguel D. Almario, Senator Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito, and Governor Dayanghirang.
Officials also examined the area within a 10-kilometer radius of the airport. Their focus centered on aviation safety, land use, and possible obstacles or hazards that could affect aircraft operations. Addressing these technical concerns ensures the airport meets national and international safety standards.
A Time-Bound Roadmap for Completion
Governor Dayanghirang formalized the province's request through a letter to DOTr Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon. He sought assistance in fast-tracking the remaining requirements, development works, and eventual full operationalization of the facility.
The letter requested an updated official report on the project's status, covering completed works, remaining components, funding requirements, and the implementation schedule. It also sought clear identification of unresolved technical, regulatory, land, infrastructure, funding, and operational issues. The governor called for closer coordination among DOTr, CAAP, the provincial government, the Mati city government, and other concerned agencies toward a clear and time-bound roadmap.
Connecting to Regional Growth Frameworks
Governor Dayanghirang cited the airport's potential contribution to the Davao Oriental-North Sulawesi Gateway Corridor and the BIMP-EAGA framework. These regional linkages position Mati Airport as a strategic node for trade and mobility beyond the province.
The meeting brought together Usec. Jim C. Sydiongco, Director Eduardo Mangalili, Asec. Donaldo A. Mendoza from DOTr, and CAAP Director General Raul L. Del Rosario, DDGA Danjun G. Lucas, and ADG Valentino A. Dionela. Congressman Cheeno Miguel D. Almario and Mayor Joel Mayo C. Almario also attended, alongside MinDA representatives Engr. Joan S. Barrera and Mr. Argie S. Leparto.
A Step Toward Faster, More Direct Access
The governor assured DOTr and CAAP that the province is prepared to provide local government support and coordinate with national agencies to address remaining requirements. For Davao Oriental, the continued push represents a concrete step toward faster, more direct access to the province and its destinations, products, and growing economic opportunities.
