International partnership to modernise key transport hub
Aboitiz InfraCapital has secured a 30-year concession to expand, operate, and maintain the Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental. The landmark deal was finalised after a competitive “Swiss Challenge” procurement process, adhering to the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code of the Philippines.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) acted as the lead transaction advisor to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) throughout the project. Legal counsel was provided by King & Wood Mallesons (KWM), a global law firm with experience in infrastructure projects. A team led by Australian partner Gilles Cardonnel, with support from Hong Kong senior associate Gallien Lefevre and Singapore associate Diksha Maheshwari, organised KWM’s involvement.
A signing ceremony, attended by Philippine president Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., was held at Malacañan Palace to mark the execution of the Concession Agreement between the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and DOTr, acting as grantor, and Aboitiz InfraCapital’s project company as the concessionaire.
“It was a privilege to advise IFC and DOTr on this landmark PPP initiative, which promises to transform Laguindingan International Airport into a world-class facility, unlocking further economic growth in the region,” said Cardonnel.
The expansion project is expected to enhance the airport’s capacity and services, boosting connectivity and tourism in Northern Mindanao. According to a news release, this initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to modernise infrastructure and promote economic development through public-private partnerships.
KWM, assisted by the Philippine law firm Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & de los Angeles, brought their international expertise in infrastructure and PPP transactions to this project. The firm is currently involved in two other airport PPP projects with IFC and DOTr.
