Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA), operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), has been named Sustainability Initiative of the Year – Philippines at the Travel Daily Media Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2026 – Asia. The award recognises the airport's ECO-Airport Project, a comprehensive framework designed to reduce the facility's environmental footprint while supporting the island's tourism economy.
The ECO-Airport Project bundles seven distinct initiatives: renewable energy, resource monitoring, water conservation, wastewater management, ground operations, plastic reduction, and environmental partnerships. Rather than treating sustainability as a series of one-off campaigns, ABAC has embedded these considerations into the airport's daily operations and its relationship with the surrounding community.
Energy and water efficiency at the core
BPIA has installed solar panels to power the terminal, aiming for 100% solar-powered daytime operations. The airport's ECO Watt and ECO Flow monitoring systems track energy and water consumption in real time, helping identify efficiency gains. On the water front, the airport is harvesting rainwater for non-potable uses, reducing demand on local potable supplies.
Wastewater management is another pillar. BPIA is coordinating with local regulators on a Community Sewage Treatment Plant initiative, exploring the possibility of treating wastewater from nearby tourism establishments. The goal is to protect the coastal waters of Panglao, which are vital to the island's marine ecosystem and its appeal to visitors.
Ground operations and plastic reduction
The E-Bays concept supports the transition to electric ground handling equipment, enabling cleaner and quieter aircraft turnarounds. Meanwhile, the Road to Zero Plastic roadmap aims to inspire airport partners, concessionaires, employees, and passengers to cut down on single-use plastics.
ABAC is also leveraging BPIA's role as a gateway to promote responsible travel. The airport holds a Seal of Partnership with the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark, raising awareness of the island's geological and ecological heritage. This partnership underscores the link between the natural attractions that draw tourists and the airport's operational responsibilities.
ABAC is developing a unified framework for the seven initiatives to ensure that the airport's expansion supports connectivity and tourism growth while preserving the environment that makes Bohol unique. The recognition at the Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Asia, which honours the best in hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators, and travel technology across the region, highlights how BPIA is setting a benchmark for sustainable airport management.
Other winners at the awards included Jewel Changi Airport and PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, reflecting a broader industry push toward sustainability and innovation.
