Duterte wants Sangley Airport operational by November

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte wants the Sangley Airport to be operational by November to decongest the country’s premiere airport, Malacañang said Tuesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte gave the order to Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade during the 38th Cabinet meeting in Malacañang on Monday night.

Panelo said Duterte was “displeased” with the flight delays and cancellations that hit the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) on Sunday.

He said the President “hinted” a revamp among Naia officials.

“I think I will make a revamp,” Duterte said, as quoted by Panelo.

Duterte did not elaborate on this statement, but Panelo said “it’s a sign of displeasure.”

The Palace official said the President wanted Sangley Airport to be operational by November and not by December as suggested by Tugade.

“Parang gusto ni Presidente, ‘Hindi, masyadong matagal ang December. November na lang,’” he said.

Panelo earlier said in a statement that Duterte wanted Sangley Point in Cavite to handle domestic flights immediately to ease congestion at Naia. (Editor: Julie Espinosa)

READ: Duterte wants Sangley Point to handle domestic flights, immediately