What P700 Million Means for Mati Airport's 2026 Commercial Aviation Launch

January 13, 2026 at 01:28 AM•3 min read

DOTr earmarks P700 million for the Mati Airport development in its 2026 budget, a move expected to strengthen regional connectivity and unlock new opportunities in Davao Oriental.

Key Points

1P700 million was earmarked by the DOTr for Mati Airport development in the proposed 2026 national budget.
2The project aims for operational readiness for smaller aircraft by 2026, with turboprop services expected by 2027.
3Mati Airport will serve as an alternative Eastern Mindanao gateway, easing congestion at Francisco Bangoy International Airport.
4The investment is designed to significantly boost regional tourism and business in Davao Oriental.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has secured a P700 million budget for the Mati Airport development project in its 2026 proposal. This significant allocation is expected to boost Davao Oriental connectivity. It aims to unlock new business and regional tourism and business opportunities. Senator Christopher “Bong” Go welcomed the funding. He called it a critical step toward a more accessible province.

Project Scope and Timeline

The Mati Airport development is a long-standing priority project. The facility, originally named Imelda Romualdez Airport, was established in 1976. It failed to develop into a commercial hub due to limited demand. The current total project cost is nearly P1 billion.

Earlier funding of P700 million was secured in the 2025 budget. This included P300 million for runway asphalt overlay. The remaining P400 million was for terminal and facility upgrades. Officials aim for the airport to be operational for smaller aircraft by 2026. The DOTr intends to complete the passenger terminal building by 2026. Turboprop aircraft operations are expected to begin by 2027. This aligns with global standards for regional air travel, as outlined by IATA.

Easing Davao Congestion

The Mati Airport is positioned as an Eastern Mindanao gateway. It will help alleviate Francisco Bangoy International Airport congestion in Davao City. This provides travelers with an alternative access point to the southern region. The facility will also significantly reduce travel time for passengers. This is a major benefit for the entire province.

Economic and Tourism Impact

Improved air access is a decisive factor for economic expansion. Davao Oriental is home to globally recognized destinations. These include Mount Hamiguitan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dahican Beach and Pusan Point are also major attractions. The project is seen as a turning point for establishing Mati City as a tourism hub. The goal is to link transport infrastructure directly to tourism growth. This will generate employment and wider economic activity.

A Call for Efficient Implementation

Senator Go stressed the need for sustained government commitment. He urged implementing agencies to prioritize efficiency. Avoiding delays is critical to fully realize the airport’s benefits. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is involved in the project. The timely execution of this project is essential. It will help the Philippines meet regional air travel goals, according to ICAO principles. This development is a key piece of commercial aviation news for the region. Learn more about regional air travel updates on flying.flights.