BORACAY – The private-led initiative to modernize the Godofredo P. Ramos airport (Caticlan airport) will spur tourism and economic development in the province of Aklan and the island of Boracay.

Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores said the 25-year build-rehabilitate-operate-transfer (BROT) agreement has been signed between the Caticlan International Airport Development Corporation (CIADC) and the Department of Transportation and Communications. Phase 1 of the project involves the improvement and renovation of the existing terminal building and Phase II the extension of the runway from 950 meters to 2,100 meters, he added.

"The modernization of Caticlan airport would benefit incoming tourists to Boracay Island with lower fares offered by airlines and enhance the safety of passengers," Miraflores said. Kalibo airport, the solon said, will serve as the international gateway for travelers from  China, Taipei, South Korea and other neighboring countries. Caticlan airport, the busiest airport in the region, is the domestic airport for local airlines of Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Zest Airways, Southeast Airlines and InterIsland Airlines carrying inbound tourists to Boracay.

The developer is a George Yang-led consortium that will undertake road network improvement and upgrade the airport facilities and air traffic control aids of Caticlan airport. In 2008, Boracay registered 634,263 tourist arrivals and R12.7 billion in tourist receipts.