Skyward Expansion: Ilocos Norte Initiates Land Acquisition for Laoag International Airport Growth

 LAOAG CITY – 

The Ilocos Norte government has initiated the acquisition process for approximately 150 hectares necessary for the expansion of the Laoag International Airport this year.

Lawyer Athena Nicolette Pilar, acting general manager of the Metro Ilocos Norte Council (MINC), confirmed this on Monday, following the approval of Resolution Number 2024-01-245 by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Council). The resolution grants Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc the authority to enter into a deed of absolute sale for land structures or improvements.

"These lots are situated in Barangays Apaya, Calayab, and Araniw,” Pilar said, noting that landowners have expressed their willingness to sell the land.

Pilar explained that "at least 50 percent of the total amount will be paid to the landowner upon signing the deed of sale, and the remaining balance will be paid in full once the property is transferred under the name of the Republic of the Philippines."

Earlier, officials from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Ilocos Norte government signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to facilitate the land acquisition, with funding exceeding PHP1 billion.

According to the agreement, DOTr will finance the payment for the affected properties, improvements in the area, administrative costs, disturbance compensation, assistance to displaced individuals, and transfer and registration of land titles.

The provincial government will oversee the procurement of services from an independent property appraiser.

To imprive connectivity and mobility in the Ilocos Region, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has pledged to undertake basic developments, such as road improvements for easier access to tourism spots, upgrading airports, and establishing more international airports to alleviate congestion at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila.

With the expansion project, Governor Manotoc hopes to rejuvenate international and regional flights at the airport, including direct flights between Laoag City and Honolulu, Hawaii.

Currently, only Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines operate regular flights at the Laoag International Airport, connecting passengers to Manila and Cebu. The airport can currently accommodate up to 440 passengers.(PNA)