Luigi backs MCIA transfer to Cordova

CEBU, Philippines - Sixth District Representative Luis Gabriel Quisumbing supports the proposal to transfer the Mactan Cebu International Airport from its present location in Lapu-Lapu City to Cordova.

Quisumbing said he is not against the bold proposal of Cordova Mayor Adelino Sitoy to host the airport in the 1,100 hectare property that he proposed to be reclaimed.

“In my opinion if there is no more room for the airport’s expansion why not transfer to a new location,” Quisumbing said.

However, Quisumbing said the current airport should be improved and upgraded first pending the proposed transfer considering that it would take time because the lot offered by Sitoy is still to be reclaimed.

“Since it is still in its conceptual stage, in the meantime we need to upgrade the airport,” Quisumbing said

Quisumbing said that the immediate concern right now if for the airport to cope up with the demand for security since a lot of tourists are coming in passing through the MCIA.

The lawmaker believes that the airport is still in satisfactory level despite the lack of the needed equipment for security. He also noted the need to have skilled security personnel to complement with the modern equipment.

Sitoy earlier offered to host the airport as soon as his proposed reclamation project is done.

He made the offer following the presentation of the master plan for the expansion of the airport terminal and runway by the Korean International Cooperation Agency.

Sitoy believes that Lapu-Lapu City could no longer accommodate the planned expansion of the airport. But, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza disagreed saying she would rather have the airport transferred to Caubian islet in Olango island rather than in Cordova town.  (FREEMAN)