Borongan Airport Set for Major Upgrade P200 Million Boost to Enhance Tourism and Connectivity

In 2024, Borongan Airport in Eastern Samar will undergo significant upgrades, with a P200 million capital outlay allocated for its development. This funding, part of the Philippines’ P5.678 trillion budget for 2024, was announced by House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan of the 4Ps party-list. The investment aims to enhance the airport’s aviation infrastructure, allowing it to handle a greater capacity of commercial flights.

The airport, serving Eastern Samar province and the coastal capital city of Borongan, a popular surfing destination, is currently extending its runway by 200 meters, adding to its existing 1.3-kilometer length. This development is crucial for facilitating the transfer of people and goods and is expected to boost tourism in the region. Philippine Airlines (PAL) has already initiated flights between Cebu and Borongan, operating twice a week, making travel to Borongan more accessible.

Representative Libanan, previously the lone congressional representative of Eastern Samar, expressed optimism that the upgrade would contribute to making Borongan the surfing capital of Visayas. Borongan City had previously hosted the Surf City Borongan Masters, attracting over 150 surfers from across the Philippines. The congressman also anticipates that other airlines will soon commence operations to and from Borongan, further enhancing the region’s connectivity and tourist appeal.

These developments at Borongan Airport reflect a broader effort to improve transportation infrastructure and promote regional tourism in the Philippines. By increasing the airport’s capacity and enhancing its facilities, the government aims to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and showcase the natural and cultural attractions of Eastern Samar to a wider audience​​​​.