The Municipality of Panglao is exploring closer coordination with stakeholders to improve the tourism experience in the municipality, particularly by linking the visitor journey from the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) to the destination itself.
Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC), through its airport unit Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corp. (ABAC), is working with the municipality to identify ways the airport can complement Panglao’s tourism efforts.
The discussions focus on how the airport and local government can work with tourism stakeholders, businesses and communities to create a more coordinated experience for visitors arriving in Panglao.
The initiative builds on improvements made at BPIA, where ABAC has invested in passenger areas, airport systems, equipment and other facilities since taking over its operations.
The partnership was discussed during a meeting between AIC First Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs Christopher Camba, AIC Airports Head of Tourism and Destination Marketing Blessie Cruz, AIC Airports External Affairs Manager Mox Esperat, Panglao Mayor Edgardo “Boy” Arcay and Municipal Tourism Head Leonides E. Senica.
Camba said the airport can help shape visitors’ first impressions of Panglao while supporting the destination beyond the terminal.
“The airport is often a visitor’s first point of contact with a destination, so we have an opportunity to make that experience a positive one from the start. We want to work closely with Panglao to understand the needs of the destination and identify ways the airport can support the experience beyond the terminal,” Camba said.
Arcay welcomed the discussions, emphasizing the role of the municipal government, businesses, residents and other stakeholders in strengthening Panglao’s tourism environment.
He also highlighted the importance of building on Panglao’s existing tourism strengths while continuing to improve the destination for both visitors and the local community.
Panglao is among Bohol’s key tourism destinations, known for its beaches, diving and marine attractions, resorts and hospitality industry.
For Cruz, the airport’s role extends beyond serving as an arrival and departure point as it can complement the municipality’s efforts to improve the overall visitor experience.
“The airport is an important part of that journey, and we want to complement Panglao’s efforts by understanding what the destination needs and identifying where we can work together to make the overall experience more positive,” Cruz said.
Through BPIA, AIC said it will continue improving airport facilities and operations while strengthening its engagement with Panglao to support a more connected visitor journey between the gateway and the destination.
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