The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Antique has taken urgent steps to preserve the Manila–Antique–Manila flight route following the announcement that turboprop operations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will be phased out starting March 29.
In two resolutions passed by the provincial board, Board Members Ricky Lavega and Karmila Rose Dimamay called on national government agencies and aviation authorities to prevent the cancellation or transfer of Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) flights servicing Antique — a crucial link inaugurated only on January 19 this year.
Lavega’s resolution expressed “grave and urgent concern” over the phase-out of turboprop operations at NAIA Terminal 2 and appealed to the Manila Slot Coordination Committee (MSCC) and other aviation authorities to retain the Manila–Antique–Manila route.
Meanwhile, Dimamay filed a separate resolution urging the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and airline operators not only to maintain but also expand commercial flight operations at the Evelio B. Javier Antique Airport in San Jose de Buenavista.
During the SP session, members agreed to consolidate the two measures into a unified appeal to the DOTr as the primary implementing agency.
The board is seeking immediate action to upgrade airport operations and fast-track necessary permits that would allow Airbus aircraft and potentially other airline operators to serve Antique.
Provincial officials stressed that losing the direct Manila connection could significantly impact tourism, trade, and economic momentum, especially since the airport’s commercial operations resumed only recently.
The SP’s move signals a proactive stance to safeguard Antique’s air connectivity and ensure that national aviation policy adjustments will not sideline emerging provincial gateways.IMT
