Francisco Bangoy International Airport, better known as Davao International Airport (DIA), is slated for a massive ₱12.9-billion modernization under the government’s Public–Private Partnership (PPP) program. The project aims to upgrade Mindanao’s busiest gateway into a world-class aviation hub.
Among the top contenders is Singapore’s Changi Airport Group, widely regarded as one of the world’s best airport operators. Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte has openly backed Changi’s bid, saying its global track record could transform DIA’s operations, passenger services, and overall efficiency.
Changi’s reputation is backed by decades of success. In 2025, it reclaimed the title of World’s Best Airport at the Skytrax World Airport Awards in Madrid. Its 13th win, along with honors for Best in Asia, Best Dining, Best in the 60–70 million passenger category, and the first-ever award for World’s Best Airport Washrooms. It also ranked second globally in Travel + Leisure’s list, just behind Istanbul Airport.
In 2024, Changi ranked as the fourth-busiest airport worldwide for international passengers, handling about 67 million travelers. Its $1.7-billion Jewel Changi Airport, featuring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, 280 shops and restaurants, and advanced passenger facilities, has become a benchmark for blending travel, commerce, and leisure.
The DIA PPP project will follow a Rehabilitate-Operate-Transfer model, rolled out in two phases.
- Phase 1: Expansion of the passenger terminal, apron upgrades, new fire station, expanded parking, and a parallel taxiway.
- Phase 2: Upgrades to ground support facilities and related services.
Separately, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has allocated ₱650 million to expand DIA’s Passenger Terminal Building from 17,500 to 25,910 square meters by December 2026, raising seating capacity from 1,500 to 2,200 passengers and generating around 4,000 construction jobs.
According to Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, three major groups have shown interest: Filinvest, Gokongwei, and Changi. Filinvest has already submitted a proposal, while the others are expected to follow. Dizon stressed that privatization is long overdue, noting DIA remains the only major international airport still under full government management.
Francisco Bangoy International Airport served more than 4 million passengers annually, functioning as Mindanao’s primary international gateway. The upgrades are expected to double its capacity within the decade, attract more foreign airlines, and strengthen Davao’s position as a hub for trade, tourism, and cargo exports such as bananas, cacao, coconuts, and BPO services.
Industry analysts believe bringing in Changi Airport Group could be a game-changer. By replicating its model. Where more than half of revenues come from non-aeronautical sources like retail and dining—DIA could diversify income streams while enhancing passenger experience.
The winning bidder is expected to be announced soon, with groundbreaking to follow. If Changi secures the deal, Davao will join the ranks of global cities shaped by its expertise, cementing its rise as a premier destination for investment, trade, and tourism.
If you’re interested in real estate investment, it’s also important to understand the construction cost to build a rental property in the Philippines. Knowing the budget requirements can help you gauge whether airport-driven growth in Davao could translate into profitable rental opportunities
Source: 3 private groups bidding for Davao Int’l Airport modernization