Davao — After a week of intense repairs and rigorous safety inspections, commercial flight operations at the General Santos International Airport officially resumed on Monday, June 15, 2026. The facility had been temporarily shuttered following the powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Sarangani on June 8, which caused notable damage to the passenger terminal, the control tower, and various support facilities. This successful reopening marks a critical step forward in Mindanao’s recovery efforts, restoring a vital gateway for travelers and commerce after the seismic event left hundreds of thousands affected across the region.
Fast-Tracking Safety and Connectivity
The swift restoration of the airport was a top priority for national authorities, with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. issuing direct instructions to expedite all necessary repairs to minimize the disruption for passengers. Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Lopez reaffirmed the administration's commitment to efficiency, noting that prolonged closures would impose unnecessary burdens on travelers and the regional economy. Following a comprehensive safety assessment by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), officials were able to certify that all passenger-facing facilities and critical control infrastructure met the required safety standards for public use. While the airport had remained open for cargo, humanitarian aid, and military support during the suspension, the return of commercial flights provides a much-needed boost to regional mobility.
Navigating the New Schedule
As the airport transitions back to regular operations, the CAAP and airport management teams have been working closely with various airline partners to coordinate the resumption of service. Passengers with previous bookings are strongly encouraged to communicate directly with their respective airlines to confirm updated flight schedules and travel arrangements, as many regional timetables were significantly adjusted during the week-long pause. The earthquake’s impact was widespread, with the NDRRMC reporting 65 casualties and hundreds of thousands of affected individuals across Mindanao, making the restoration of transport hubs like GenSan Airport a cornerstone of the broader humanitarian and economic relief strategy. As the region continues its path toward stabilization, the reopening serves as a resilient symbol of the community's progress in overcoming the recent natural disaster.
