Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on Saturday, June 21, said he is supportive of the initiative of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to privatize the operations of the Bacolod-Silay Airport provided that the private partner has the proven capacity, resources, and vision to implement the necessary improvements.
“The success of this project depends greatly on choosing the right partner — one that is committed to public service, long-term sustainability, and development,” Lacson said.
Bacolod Mayor and Representative-elect Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said he welcomes the privatization of the airport operations “if facilities and services will be improved”.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon earlier said the DOTr is committed to privatize the operations and maintenance of 10 more regional airports, including the Bacolod Silay Airport, by 2028.
“I welcome the announcement of the DOTr regarding its plan to privatize the operations and maintenance of regional airports — including the Bacolod-Silay Airport —through the public-private partnership by 2028,” Lacson said in a statement.
Lacson said for a rapidly growing province like Negros Occidental, a modern, efficient, and world-class airport is “essential to our economic development, tourism growth, and overall connectivity”.
”We look forward to working closely with the DOTr and all stakeholders to ensure that this transition, if it proceeds, will serve the best interests of our province and our people,” he added.*