DOTr to night-rate, extend runway of Tandag Airport in Surigao del Sur

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) committed to night-rate the Tandag Airport in Surigao del Sur and extend its runway in a bid to entice airlines to fly there.

In a pre-recorded situation briefing at Surigao del Sur aired Tuesday, President Rodrigo Duterte asked Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade if his office could night-rate the province’s Tandag Airport.

“Yes, we’ll do that,” Tugade, speaking partly in Filipino, told Duterte. “What’s imporant for being night-rated is the demographics of the passengers. In fact, the airlines, as of now, are not yet convinced to fly here because of what they call the unprofitable route.”

“Is there a need to improve it for passengers to come? Or is there are need for passengers first before you improve it? My feeling is that the style of, if I may say, China is to build the improvements and let the people come,” he added.

Tugade also noted that the DOTr aimed to finish the extension of Tandag Airport’s runway from 1.4 kilometers to 1.6 kilometers by the end of 2021.

“In due time, the night rate will come,” Tugade said.

The President visited Surigao del Sur on Tuesday to see firsthand the effects of Tropical Storm Auring on the province.

He also presided over a situational briefing with his Cabinet members and Surigao del Sur officials.

[atm]