The Antique Airport in San Jose de Buenavista is on the brink of a significant transformation, thanks to a recent infusion of PHP125 million secured by Senator Loren Legarda and Representative Antonio Agapito Legarda. This funding, part of the 2025 national budget, marks a pivotal moment in the airport’s redevelopment and modernization efforts.
Senator Legarda expressed her enthusiasm, stating that this development is a major step forward in enhancing the province’s air connectivity and economic growth. She highlighted the collaborative efforts with her brother over the years, which have been instrumental in pushing the project forward. The senator emphasized that Antique is no longer just a quiet province but is emerging as a crucial hub for commerce, tourism, and development.
The journey to this point began in 2017 when Legarda, as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, secured initial funding for a new airport terminal. Since then, the airport has seen significant upgrades. The runway, which was only 1,200 meters long in 2016, was extended to 1,400 meters by 2018, allowing for the landing of 80-seater propeller aircraft. In 2023, it was further extended to 1,700 meters.
With the latest funding, the runway is set to be extended to 1,800 meters, enabling it to handle larger aircraft, including Airbus models. During a recent visit, Legarda stressed the importance of building infrastructure that can withstand various challenges, including potential hazards and environmental issues.
She has called upon the Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Highways to develop a master plan for the airport’s drainage system to prevent flooding and to provide a comprehensive update on the airport’s progress. Legarda emphasized that every peso invested must contribute to tangible progress for the people of Antique, reinforcing the province’s connectivity and economic potential.