DoTr opens bidding for P719-M Tacloban airport development

THE Department of Transportation (DoTr) has invited bids for the P719.50-million Tacloban Airport Development Project.

According to the bid notice issued by the Transportation department, the project covers asphalt overlay and marine works. The winning contractor for the project must complete the project within 540 calendar days, which included the 60 pre-determined unworkable days.

Bidders must also have completed a project of a similar kind in the last 10 years, the DoTr said, adding that bids must be submitted on or before May 11.

Separately, the DoTr has also said that the construction and expansion of Busuanga Airport is also advancing.

The agency said that it is set to conduct the pre-procurement activity for the airport this week, with the construction set to begin by July.

The new passenger terminal building at the airport will be completed by May 2027, the agency said, adding that the new upgrade of the terminal building will increase its total capacity to 1,000 passengers from the current 200.

Earlier this year, DoTr also invited potential bidders to redevelop the airports in Naga City, Ormoc, and Kalibo, with the contracts valued at a combined P1.65 billion.

The DoTr’s airport upgrade program is focused on improving many provincial airports to accommodate at least narrowbody jets to handle the growing passenger capacities. The capacity to handle Boeing 737 or Airbus A320 aircraft — the most prevalent single-aisle jet models — also suggests upgrades to attract direct international flights. — Ashley Erika O. Jose