-
Masbate Airport was reopened Monday, September 29, after sustaining damage from Typhoon Opong (international name: Bualoi) last week
-
Cost of structural damage was estimated at P10 to P15 million
-
The passenger building has been declared safe for occupancy
-
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez inspected the airport on September 27 and directed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to fast-track repairs
-
Emergency procurement of construction materials was authorized to speed up repairs despite supply chain disruptions
-
Lopez emphasized the need for typhoon-resilient airport and port infrastructure
Masbate Airport was reopened Monday, September 29, after sustaining damage from Typhoon Opong (international name: Bualoi) last week.
Cost of structural damage was estimated at P10 to P15 million, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez inspected the airport on September 27 and directed CAAP to fast-track repairs and, if necessary, establish a temporary terminal while the passenger terminal building (PTB) is undergoing rehabilitation.
Lopez also instructed CAAP to proceed with emergency procurement to immediately secure construction supplies and ensure standby stock for future use.
On Monday, CAAP said the PTB has been declared safe for occupancy.
All hazardous materials and debris previously hanging from the ceiling have been removed while temporary roofing has been installed to provide protection, while power supply and internet connectivity have been fully restored.
Nonetheless, CAAP said while the airport has been reopened and ready to operate, the resumption of flights will remain at the discretion of the airlines.
According to airport personnel, Opong was the strongest typhoon to hit Masbate in recent years, forcing the cancellation of flights and the suspension of airport operations since evening of September 25.
CAAP said clearing and safety measures were immediately undertaken to restore operations and ensure the safety of travelers.
“Moving forward, the architecture and design of our airports and ports must be typhoon-resilient. We experience numerous storms each year, so all facilities should be structurally prepared,” Lopez said.
The acting transport chief also inspected Masbate Port, which sustained minor damage. He instructed port authorities to acquire additional air-to-water converters to ensure sufficient potable water supply during emergencies.
