The Province of Northern Samar through its local officials were united in their gratitude to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) headed by Secretary Arthur Tugade for its development projects in the province, primarily at the Catarman Airport, which were inaugurated this morning, September 2, 2021.
Vice Governor Gary Lavin representing Governor Edwin Ongchuan and the provincial government, along with First District Congressman Paul Daza and Catarman Vice Mayor Boots Bonsol all expressed their thanks to the national government under the administration of President Duterte for the major improvements at the Catarman Airport which include a modernized Passenger Terminal Building, an expanded airport apron, additional taxiway, construction of perimeter fence, asphalt overlay at the runway and the Aerodome Rescue and Firefighting station.
The airport can now accommodate 2 turboprop aircraft at the same time, and its expanded terminal building can take in up to 150 passengers at one time, where they can be more comfortable while they wait for their flight or upon arrival.
“These air transport improvements will encourage more tourist arrivals in Northern Samar, boost local tourism, as well as enhance response during disasters or calamities,” Vice Governor Lavin said, noting the province’s vulnerability to typhoons while also being gifted with great sights such as the Biri rock formation, San Vicente Pink beach, and other natural attractions.
“The airport is critical to the economic growth of the province. We are honored that Secretary Tugade pushed for the completion of these development projects at the Catarman Airport. While some repairs may have been initiated years before, they were already damaged by typhoons,” Congressman Daza also remarked.
In his message, Secretary Tugade pointed out that the development of the Catarman Airport is in line with the national government’s thrust to create opportunities for growth, especially in areas where they are needed.
“Let us take pride in these development projects, and care for them,” he encouraged, calling for concerted efforts to sustain the government’s project in the province.
On top of the Catarman Airport development project, Secretary Tugade likewise mentioned in the pipeline, port improvement in San Isidro, Allen and San Jose. Also present during the inauguration were DOTr Usec Raul del Rosario, Usec Giovanni Lopez, Asec Jim Melo, CAAP Director General Jim Sydiongco, Mayor Don Abalon, Sangguniang Panlalawigan members, national government agency representatives, Catarman airport personnel and the local media. (act/pio)