The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has assured no damages were found at the airports in Cotabato and General Santos
following a magnitude 5.3 earthquake late Monday night in Sarangani.
“CAAP reported no damages to airport facilities at Cotabato Airport and General Santos Airport. Managers of both airports immediately
assessed and inspected the structures and confirmed the absence of any significant damage to passenger terminal buildings and other airport
facilities,” said agency spokesperson Eric Apolonio.
He said General Santos Airport has resumed normal flight operations, with both the terminal and runway open and fully operational.
“While there are no reports of expected damage, Phivolcs has advised that aftershocks are possible following an earthquake of this
magnitude. CAAP already coordinated with local authorities and agencies to prepare in the event of any aftershocks,” he added.
Apolonio said the agency will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide necessary updates to ensure the smooth and safe
operation of flights in the affected areas.
Cotabato Airport, which CAAP manages airside operations, is still closed for development from July 6 to August 18 due to the ongoing
improvement project.
“The closure is due to the ongoing asphalt overlay and repainting of the runway markings. During this period, the airport will not be
operating fixed-wing aircraft and no commercial flights will be received,” said Apolonio.
Cotabato Airport’s landside operations are being managed by the Bangsamoro Airport Authority under the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in
Muslim Mindanao-Ministry of Transportation and Communications.