Sen. Bong Go Welcomes ₱700-M Allocation for Mati Airport, Cites Tourism and Economic Gains for Davao Oriental
MANILA — Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has welcomed the allocation of ₱700 million in the proposed 2026 budget of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for the development of Mati Airport, describing the project as a major boost to tourism, connectivity, and economic growth in Davao Oriental and the wider Mindanao region.
During the Senate interpellation on the DOTr’s proposed 2026 budget on November 27, 2025, Go underscored the importance of sustained funding and timely implementation of the airport, which he has long pushed as a priority infrastructure project for eastern Mindanao.
“Sana po’y tuloy-tuloy na rin ang construction nitong Mati Airport na dati pa nating ipinaglalaban,” the senator said, stressing the need for consistent government support until the facility becomes fully operational.
Go, an ex officio member of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Board of Directors representing the Senate, said the Mati Airport is expected to help decongest the Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City while significantly reducing travel time for passengers bound for Davao Oriental.
He noted that improved air connectivity would unlock the province’s tourism potential and strengthen its local economy. Davao Oriental is home to several high-value tourism destinations, including Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Dahican Beach in Mati City, known for its long white shoreline and surfing conditions; and Pusan Point in Caraga town, recognized as the country’s first sunrise point.
The senator, who traces his roots to Davao Oriental, reiterated his support for the project during the province’s 58th Araw ng Davao Oriental celebration in July 2024, where he called on national and local stakeholders to work together to maximize tourism-led growth.
“Of course, itong Mati Airport, magtulungan tayo para umunlad pa ang turismo. Malaki ang potential nitong Davao Oriental,” Go said during the event.
With funding now included in the national budget proposal, Go said attention should shift to efficient project execution, emphasizing that airport development must translate into job creation, increased visitor arrivals, and broader economic activity in the region.
“Transportation has always been the backbone of our economy. It fuels economic growth, connects our communities, and allows our people access to education, work, and opportunities,” he said.
The Mati Airport project aligns with both the Davao Region Development Plan and the National Tourism Development Plan, which aim to strengthen transport gateways and support emerging tourism and economic hubs outside Metro Manila.
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