Aklan Governor Jose Enrique M. Miraflores said the passenger terminal building (PTB) that is being built at the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan, Malay, Aklan, would open up more opportunities to strengthen tourism and make travelers feel safer.

“Syempre, patuloy naming hinahanapan ng paraan to strengthen our tourism industry, like cruise ship tourism. Mas mabilis na rin ang fly-and-cruise na gusto naming ma-propose for those tourists that are visiting Boracay and other challenges,” the governor said.

“So malaking tulong talaga itong airport dahil siyempre, Boracay is a world-renowned destination. Laging nasa top tourist destination s’ya. Kaya dapat lang din na may magandang airport tayo para sa mga turista,” he said.

Miraflores said the PTB is the solution to the challenges faced by travelers, especially the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

“With this terminal building, safe na safe na ’yung mga turista. Wala na silang iisipin na kapag umulan or malakas ang hangin, paano sila makatawid. ‘Yun ’yung isa sa mga biggest challenges talaga,” he said.

“We’re very happy na isa talaga sa mga priorities ni President Marcos itong project na ‘to. With him leading this groundbreaking, makikita n’ya talaga ‘yung situation. So, for me and for us, happy kami dahil sa lalong mabilis na panahon, matatapos na ang terminal building,” the governor said.

Meanwhile, Nabas Municipal Mayor James V. Solanoy highlighted how the consolidation of airport operations will benefit not only passengers but also the local economy.

“Dati po kasi ‘yung departure area is doon po sa Caticlan which is malayo. Dito ‘yung arrival. So sa ngayon po, inilagay po lahat ’yung departure at saka arrival. Ibig sabihin, ‘yung maitutulong po nito sa Nabas is ‘yung ekonomiya,” Solanoy said.

Expressing pride and hope, Mayor Solanoy said, “Ako po ay nagpapasalamat kay Mr. President na ngayon siya talaga ‘yung pupunta dito sa amin para mag-groundbreaking. Ibig sabihin, itong project na ito ay suportado ni President.” | PND