Aumentado prefers monorail over Bus Rapid Transit

CEBU, Philippines — With the impending turnover of Bohol-Panglao International Airport to private management, Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado has reiterated his preference for a monorail system over a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to ease transportation woes in the province.

Aumentado made the proposal during a recent visit by Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, where they discussed ongoing transportation and infrastructure projects in Bohol. The governor cited traffic congestion and limited road space in the Tagbilaran-Dauis-Panglao area as key reasons why a monorail would be a better alternative to the BRT system.

He pointed out the challenges faced by Cebu’s BRT project, emphasizing that a monorail could be a more efficient and sustainable solution for Bohol’s growing tourism industry. According to Aumentado, Dizon acknowledged the feasibility of the monorail as a potential pilot project, especially since the area is not yet overly congested.

The governor’s proposal comes amid expectations of increased tourist arrivals following the transition of Bohol-Panglao International Airport’s operations to Aboitiz Company in June or July this year. The privatization is expected to bring more flights and potentially lower airfares, with Aumentado advocating for direct international flights from Taiwan, Vietnam, Japan, and other key markets.

Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap confirmed that Aboitiz will officially take over the airport’s operations in July, adding that efforts are underway to coordinate with tour agencies to boost tourism.

This aligns with preparations for the grand Saulog sa Tagbilaran 2025 festival in May, a major cultural event aimed at drawing both local and foreign visitors.

Last week, Secretary Dizon conducted inspections of various airports, including Bohol-Panglao International Airport, to assess their condition. The Department of Transportation is expected to review Aumentado’s monorail proposal in the coming months as part of its broader transport development plans. — (FREEMAN)