Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC) and the Municipality of Panglao are deepening their collaboration to transform Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) into a more welcoming and efficient gateway for travelers. The initiative, announced following a recent coordination meeting, aims to align airport operations with the destination's tourism goals, ensuring a smoother visitor journey from touchdown to departure.
BPIA, operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), has already seen substantial upgrades in passenger terminals, systems, and amenities. These investments are part of a broader strategy to not only improve operational efficiency but also to elevate the overall passenger experience, a critical factor as Panglao continues to attract international and domestic visitors.
Aligning airport and destination strategies
At the heart of this partnership is a shared vision to treat the airport as an integral part of the tourist experience, not just a transit point. Christopher Camba, AIC First Vice President, underscored this during the meeting with Panglao officials, including Mayor Edgardo Arcay. "We want to work closely with Panglao to understand the needs of the destination and identify ways the airport can support the experience beyond the terminal," Camba said.
This sentiment was echoed by Blessie Cruz, AIC Airports Head of Tourism, who noted, "The airport is an important part of that journey, and we want to complement Panglao’s efforts by understanding what the destination needs." The collaboration is designed to foster closer coordination among the airport, local government, and tourism stakeholders, creating a unified approach to visitor satisfaction.
Mayor Arcay emphasized the importance of this multi-stakeholder effort, recognizing that government, businesses, and residents all play a role in shaping the visitor experience. "Panglao’s reputation as a premier beach destination depends on seamless arrivals and departures," he said, highlighting the airport's role as the first and last impression for many tourists.
Beyond the terminal: enhancing the journey
The partnership goes beyond physical infrastructure, focusing on how the airport can actively support the destination's tourism ecosystem. This includes improving connectivity with local transport, providing better information services, and potentially integrating local cultural elements into the airport experience. Such initiatives align with broader industry trends, as seen in Taoyuan Airport's approach to turning layovers into cultural experiences, and reflect a growing emphasis on local experiences boosting neighborhood economies.
For travel professionals, this collaboration signals a shift toward more integrated destination management. Airlines serving BPIA, such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia, stand to benefit from improved ground handling and passenger flow, which can enhance on-time performance and customer satisfaction. Tour operators and agents can also leverage the airport's upgraded facilities to offer more seamless packages, particularly for the growing segment of travelers seeking authentic local experiences, a trend highlighted by recent data on Indian travelers prioritizing local experiences.
The initiative also aligns with the broader push in Southeast Asia to manage tourism sustainably, as destinations like Panglao face increasing visitor numbers. By improving the airport experience, AIC and the local government aim to distribute tourist flows more evenly and reduce pressure on popular sites, a concern echoed in regional efforts to tighten tourist conduct rules.
As part of its ongoing commitment, Aboitiz InfraCapital Airports continues to invest in BPIA's facilities and operations, with a focus on creating a better-connected visitor journey between the gateway and the destination. This collaborative model could serve as a blueprint for other airports and tourism boards looking to enhance their competitive edge in the global travel market.
