More airport modernization and other transport projects in Mindanao are in the pipeline following the successful modernization of Laguindingan Airport, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said Thursday.

During the 1st Mindanao Infrastructure Summit in Davao City, Bautista said the modernization and the recent notice of award given by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to a private concessionaire for the operation and maintenance of Laguindingan Airport is the second successful modernization after the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Transportation infrastructure, he said, is “one of the bright spots for Mindanao, aside from agriculture, digitalization, and energy.”

“We should be working for sustainable and inclusive development in Mindanao,” he added.

To date, Bautista said there is “keen interest” by private investors through the submission of unsolicited proposals for transport infrastructure projects.

Other airports in line for modernization in Mindanao include the Zamboanga, Mati, M’lang, Jolo, Siargao, Tandag, Siargao and Bukidnon airports.

During the event, Bautista also highlighted the Davao Public Transport Modernization project that aims to transform public transport in Metro Davao.

“The Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP) is the country’s first-ever network solution to urban congestion,” he said.

Under the DPTMP, more than 600 kilometers of lanes are designated for the exclusive use of traditional buses, electric buses, modern jeepneys, and other modes of public transport in Davao City. (PNA)