Bong Go backs construction of new international airport in Bulacan

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has expressed his support for the construction of the New Manila International Airport project in Bulacan. He, however, reminded the proponents to ensure compliance with labor, environmental and other applicable laws, rules and regulations.

"We support the objectives of this measure, full support po ako dito," Go concluded.

During a public hearing conducted by the Senate Committee on Public Services on Wednesday, September 23, Go said that the construction of the new airport will bring in jobs and economic opportunities outside Metro Manila and will provide livelihood to Filipinos especially those left jobless due to the pandemic. He added that it will significantly decongest traffic in the National Capital Region.

"I just want to very briefly state that I fully support the move to open a new airport in Bulacan, thanks to the efforts of San Miguel Corporation," Go said during the public hearing.

"As pointed out by our fellow Senators Villanueva and Gatchalian, who know very well of the desires of the people of Bulacan and its neighboring provinces, this will go a long way towards providing jobs and other economic opportunities outside of Manila," Go said.

"And, of course, to decongest traffic sa Maynila. Matagal na rin po natin itong inaasam," he added.

Go pointed out that the construction of the new airport will be a prime example in promoting the distribution of economic opportunities outside of the metropolis.

"As long as ma-obserbahan ang mga karagdagang batas at rules and regulations when it comes to the environment, labor laws, at iba pang mga batas, we fully support the establishment of this airport," he reminded.

In the past, Go said Bulacan and the rest of Central Luzon will benefit from various development projects, particularly under the Duterte Administration's "Build, Build, Build" infrastructure program.

The privately funded airport project will include a passenger terminal building with airside and landside facilities, and an 8.4-km tollway to serve as airport access connecting to North Luzon Expressway in Marilao, Bulacan.

Presently, the national government is undertaking a project for the extension of the Philippine National Railway service from Tutuban in Manila, traversing Malolos, Bulacan, and up to Pampanga.

There is also the Arterial Road Bypass Project-Phase 2, inaugurated in 2018, meant to link NLEX in Balagtas, Bulacan with the Philippine-Japan Friendship Highway, also called Maharlika Highway, in San Rafael, Bulacan.