President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday, January 19, inaugurated the completed Antique Airport (Evelio B. Javier) Development Project in San Jose de Buenavista, Antique, with a total cost of P1.576 billion.
The inauguration was marked by the unveiling of the project marker, formally signifying the completion of major infrastructure upgrades intended to improve airport operations and air connectivity in the province.
The project expanded the passenger terminal building from 181 square meters to 2,224 square meters. Seating capacity increased from 64 to 360 passengers, while the number of check-in counters was raised to six.
Airside facilities were upgraded with the construction of a new aircraft ramp capable of accommodating up to four jet aircraft simultaneously and the expansion of the control tower to seven stories to enhance flight operations and safety.
The runway was extended from 1,430 meters to 1,800 meters, enabling the airport to handle jet aircraft and improving access to Antique.
Additional components of the project included the installation of modern baggage handling systems, flight information display systems, and upgraded passenger facilities.
In his message, Marcos said the government is addressing the daily difficulties experienced by travelers by working to make transportation faster, more efficient, and more accessible.
He also cited the potential of Antique’s tourism and agriculture sectors, noting that improved airport facilities are expected to support economic activity in the province.
The airport development was implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), with support from Loren Legarda and in coordination with the provincial and local governments of Antique.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.