Aklan guv appeals to landowners on KIA expansion

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores is appealing to the landowners affected by the expansion projects of Kalibo International Airport (KIA) to expropriate their irrigated lands in favor of the government. 

 
The appeal was made by Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores over local radio station Barangay 92.9 Kalibo to 16 irrigated landowners in Barangay Pook. 

The governor said negotiations led by Provincial Administrator Selwyn Ibarreta and former Aklan provincial treasurer Harry Formaran are underway for the much-needed airport expansion.

Ibarreta said the negotiating team is trying to expropriate irrigated lands close to the airport covering three hectares for the winning contractor to start the airport apron construction.

He said funding requirements from the Department of Transportation and Communication (DoTC) for the purchase of lots are available with the provincial government. 

“We are working overtime to meet the required timetable set by Aklan Governor Miraflores.  Two landowners already agreed to our terms, and that we are hoping other landowners will agree to expropriate their lands," Ibarreta stressed.

What we need is their go signal to enter their properties and the civil works may begin this year." 

 
Meanwhile, low-cost carrier Air Asia is eyeing KIA as its international aviation hub and gateway of regional flights of inbounds travelers to Aklan and Boracay Island. 

 
"With Air Asia, the tourism and local economy will further grow with more international travelers to stay in the province of Aklan," Miraflores said. 

 
Air Asia targets to operate its maiden flight to Kuala Lumpur from Kalibo on April 18, which would benefit tourists to Boracay Island in terms of connectivity and cost. 

It also plans to expand its route to other regional destinations including mainland China.