Antique: The newly upgraded airport of Antique, set to open next month, is anticipated to bring in more spectators for the province’s biggest tourism event, the Binirayan Festival. Antique Governor Paolo Everardo Javier, in an interview on Tuesday, said he expects more tourists to join the festival from Dec. 1 to 29.

According to Philippines News Agency, Javier expressed optimism that Philippine Airlines (PAL) will increase its flights to Antique, bringing more visitors to the province. Currently, Philippine Airlines operates thrice-weekly flights to Antique, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Javier also mentioned the potential interest from other airline companies in operating at the upgraded airport, which can now accommodate Airbus or larger planes.

The airport’s runway has been extended to 1,800 meters from the previous 1,700 meters, and its expanded passenger terminal building can now accommodate 300 passengers, a significant increase from the previous capacity of 64. The upgraded facilities include a wider departure and arrival area, check-in counters, restrooms, a nursing and breastfeeding room, and amenities for persons with disabilities (PWDs) to enhance the travel experience.

The upgrading of the airport, also known as the Evelio B. Javier Airport, in San Jose de Buenavista, commenced in 2016. Earlier this year, Senator Loren Legarda and her sibling, Rep. Antonio Agapito Legarda, secured a PHP125-million fund from the 2025 national budget to further support the airport’s enhancements. Javier expressed his gratitude to both legislators for their crucial role in the airport’s development.

Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez conducted an ocular inspection of the airport over the weekend to ensure its readiness for the scheduled opening at the end of October.