Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) is laying the groundwork for the handover of facilities at Laguindingan International Airport in northern Mindanao, ahead of its official takeover later this month under a 30-year concession deal.

The infrastructure unit of the Aboitiz Group will assume full operations of the country’s sixth-busiest airport in April, marking the first airport public-private partnership (PPP) awarded through an unsolicited bid under the current administration.

“Our goal is to enhance the gateway’s infrastructure and services to meet the growing demands of travelers and businesses,” said AIC president and chief executive Cosette Canilao.

AIC plans to expand Laguindingan’s capacity in two phases, raising its passenger handling limit from the current 1.6 million per year to 3.9 million in the first phase and eventually to 6.3 million, depending on demand.

The modernization program will cover terminal expansion, new equipment, and upgrades to airside and landside facilities to improve safety, efficiency, and passenger experience, the company said.

The 7,184-square-meter terminal, which opened in 2013, will undergo renovations alongside upgrades to support infrastructure including cargo terminals, the air traffic control tower, firefighting and maintenance facilities, and utility networks.

The airport, located in Misamis Oriental, serves as a key gateway for Mindanao, second only to Davao’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport.

Beyond Laguindingan, AIC is also set to take over operations of Bohol-Panglao International Airport in June. The P4.53 billion project involves terminal expansion, equipment installation, and airside improvements under a similar 30-year concession.

AIC already operates Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the country’s second-busiest hub, whose Terminal 2 holds a 4-star rating from aviation consultancy Skytrax.

The Laguindingan and Bohol-Panglao projects are part of AIC’s broader strategy to upgrade Philippine aviation infrastructure while promoting local connectivity and economic growth.