Magpale wants CAAP to develop Bantayan and Camotes airports

Acting Gov. Agnes Magpale said the airport projects in Camotes and Bantayan islands may be better pursued by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

Magpale told reporters that she had initiated talks with CAAP for the development of the airports in San Francisco, Camotes Island and Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island.

Although, no official agreement has been made, Magpale said she has gotten positive responses from CAAP, through Deputy Dir. Rodante Joya.

The developments of the airports in Camotes and Bantayan islands are aimed at further boosting tourism.

Since the lots for the airports are owned by the provincial government, she said CAAP and Capitol can enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for joint venture in airport development.

Magpale said CAAP can be made in-charge of the “development of the airports” while the province can give them access to the lots.

“It experienced problems because the property is owned by the province, I said  if we can enter into a MOA, that would be good. However, they (CAAP) should be the ones to develop,” she said.

The development of the airports have been put on hold by Magpale after she found out that the plans for the projects did not have CAAP’s approval.

“I tried to talk to Joya that CAAP will be the one to make the general plan,”said Magpale.

Outgoing Cebu 3rd district Rep. Pablo John Garcia in earlier reports blamed Magpale for the stoppage of construction on the airports.

Representative Garcia said Magpale’s refusal to pay the contractors of the project that led to their pullout.

The two airports were originally included in the annual investment plan of the provincial government under the administration of suspended Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia.

In 2012, the Capitol allotted P25 million for each airport. The facility was supposed to be completed in the first half of this year.

The construction of the airport is supported by a bill filed by Rep. Ramon “Red” Durano VI of Cebu’s 5th district.

Magpale said she has already talked to Cebu Governor-elect Hilario “Junjun” Davide” about the project. She said, the incoming governor will pursue the negotiations with CAAP when he assumes office on June 30. /Peter L. Romanillos, Correspondent