Mati City, Davao Oriental, January 14, 2025 – Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat spearheaded a critical meeting with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), contractors, and local government officials to accelerate the development of the Mati Airport, a vital infrastructure project aimed at boosting the city’s accessibility and economic potential.
During the DOTr-Mati LGU Meeting, Mayor Rabat highlighted the significant economic opportunities that the Mati Airport will bring to the region.
She emphasized the need to make Mati City more accessible to investors, citing its growing potential as a hub for tourism, agriculture, and trade.
“This airport will not only open up our city to the world but also provide our people with access to opportunities that were previously out of reach,” Rabat said.
Mayor Rabat acknowledged the vital roles played by the late Governor Cora Malanyaon during her term as chair of the Regional Development Council (RDC), where she strongly endorsed the airport for funding.
The groundwork laid by Gov. Malanyaon ensured that the project became a regional priority, securing its place in the national agenda for infrastructure development.
Further support came from former Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo and Congressman Erwin Tulfo, who were instrumental in facilitating the funding.
Together, they helped secure the PHP 100 million budget that jumpstarted the airport’s development.
Mayor Rabat expressed her gratitude for their efforts, recognizing their contributions as pivotal in bringing the project closer to reality.
Among the key highlights of the meeting were:
- Secured Funding for Development
Mayor Rabat underscored the PHP 100 million budget previously secured through former Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo, which has been allocated for the airport’s development.
She also announced that, by November 2025, the airport is expected to be operational for smaller aircraft, marking a significant milestone for the city. - Expansion and Runway Development
The DOTr and the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental (PLGU) are set to sign an agreement for the expansion and development of the airport runway, with a budget of PHP 90 million.
The DOTr is optimistic that by the 4th quarter of 2026, the airport will be ready to accommodate larger propeller-driven aircraft, enabling airline companies to operate in Mati. - Export-Ready Tuna Industry
Mayor Rabat highlighted Mati City’s export-quality tuna, a prized commodity that will gain a significant logistical advantage once the airport is fully operational.
“Our fisherfolks’ ability to export high-quality tuna will flourish when this project is completed, bringing prosperity to our fishing communities,” she said.
The approved construction scope of the DOTr includes the terminal, fire station, and parking area. Contractors O.G. Santos Construction and Rakki Corporation reaffirmed their commitment to delivering the project on schedule.
Mayor Rabat also stressed the importance of incorporating the Mandaya cultural identity into the airport’s architecture and design, ensuring that the project reflects the rich heritage of the city and its people.
The following local officials are meanwhile tasked to help DOTr:
- Engr. Zenaida Loon, head of the Office of the Building Official (OBO), will oversee the electric plan and coordinate with Davao Oriental Electric Cooperative (DORECO).
- Joseph Progatorio, head of the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), will handle the zoning requirements to ensure the project’s seamless integration into the city’s master plan.
The DOTr is working toward completing the initial phases of the airport by late 2025 while setting its sights on full operational capability for larger aircraft by the end of 2026.
The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from all stakeholders to prioritize the timely and high-quality delivery of the project.
Mayor Rabat expressed her gratitude for the support of DOTr, PLGU Davao Oriental, and the contractors, emphasizing the transformative impact the airport will have on Mati City and its people.
“This airport is more than just an infrastructure project—it is a gateway to progress for our city and our region. Together, we are building a future that connects Mati to opportunities, markets, and the rest of the world,” Mayor Rabat concluded.