• Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered the Siargao Airport terminal expansion to address overcrowding
• Dizon also directed removal of the airport’s VIP lounge, reallocating space for passengers
• He instructed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to remove redundant X-ray machines to speed up security checks and implement a modular terminal expansion
• The Department of Transportation aims to transform Siargao Airport into an international hub, with plans to extend the runway and build a world-class terminal
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered the immediate implementation of expansion works for Siargao Airport terminal to address overcrowding.
Dizon visited the airport on March 23 and expressed frustration over its cramped conditions, noting the VIP lounge was unnecessary and could be repurposed to create additional space for travelers.
“Our countrymen and the tourists here are really struggling. It’s extremely cramped and hot! I had the VIP lounge removed because it’s unnecessary, and this will create more space for passengers,” Dizon said in Filipino.
In addition to removing the VIP lounge, he directed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to:
– Eliminate redundant X-ray machines to speed up security checks.
– Launch a modular terminal expansion to increase seating capacity and accommodate growing passenger traffic.
With 17 daily flights now operating at Siargao Airport, Dizon stressed the urgency of these improvements to meet rising demand.
Beyond short-term fixes, the transport chief emphasized the long-term vision of the Department of Transportation to upgrade Siargao Airport into an international hub. He instructed CAAP to accelerate runway expansion plans and initiate the construction of a modern passenger terminal.
“We will focus on the expansion and improvement of Siargao Airport as an international gateway, highlighting the growing importance of Siargao Island as one of the top tourist destinations in the country,” he said.
