WHILE the desire for a direct air link between Davao and Japan is growing, travelers may have to wait longer as Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo said that such a move remains “inappropriate” at this time due to economic and security considerations.
Speaking to the media at the Japanese Consulate in Davao on Friday, Ambassador Endo acknowledged the frequent requests from Davaoeños for a more convenient way to reach Japan. However, he emphasized that the final decision rests solely with commercial airlines.
“The establishment of a direct flight is a response to growing passenger demand,” Endo said. “It is a business decision for airline companies, whether Filipino or Japanese, based on whether a weekly or daily flight is economically viable.”
More than the willingness of carriers, the Ambassador pointed out that security remains a significant factor that continues to hinder the dream of directly connecting Mindanao with Japan.
Endo explained that while the embassy can provide data and facilitate communication, the security situation across the entire region heavily influences corporate decisions in Tokyo.
“If the security situation is drastically, dramatically improved and people from all over the world are willing to visit, that would increase the demand for direct flights,” Endo stated. “There are many elements to consider, but at this moment, it is unfortunately not yet an appropriate plan to establish direct flights to Davao.”
Despite the lack of a direct route, Endo expressed optimism about the people-to-people exchange between the two nations.
He noted a welcoming stance toward the increasing number of Filipino tourists visiting Japan and expressed hope for easier travel options for Mindanao residents in the future.
Currently, travelers from Davao must still transit through major hubs like Manila or Cebu, a logistical barrier that local business leaders hope to eventually overcome to boost tourism and trade between the Davao Region and Japan.
