THE CITY Government of Mati announced that the possible direct commercial flights to Mati are gaining momentum.
In a press release, the city government confirmed that Philippine Airlines (PAL) formally responded to their request for a meeting.
Mayor Joel Mayo Almario was invited to an exploratory meeting to discuss the possibility of mounting flights to the city. “The development comes at a crucial time as the Mati Airport undergoes expansion and rehabilitation,” the press release read.
At present, the airport only serves chartered and light aircraft, with no regular commercial flights.
The city government said this makes the PAL discussions a “significant step toward” full operationalization.
Backed by a ₱700-million allocation under the 2026 national budget, the project aims to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and support tourism and business growth in Davao Oriental.
Almario recognized that while establishing direct commercial flights to Mati may take time but is “steadily moving forward.”
“Hapit na pero dugay pa murag pawikan, slow but sure. Padayon ta sa paningkamot,” Almario said, expressing hopes the city government gets support of 2nd District Rep. Cheeno Almario and Davao Oriental Governor Nelson ‘Boy’ Dayanghirang.
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development–Davao Region (DepDev-Davao) reported a 44.35% completion for the Mati Airport, as of January 2026.
DepDev Davao stressed the airport is a priority project aimed at improving air connectivity in the eastern part of the region.
“By the end of 2025, it (already) had a combined physical accomplishment of 44.35 percent,” the agency said in a statement.
This includes the expansion and improvement of the passenger terminal building, construction of the vehicular parking area, fire station, elevated water tank, service road, and ground support equipment road.
The airport is being upgraded to accommodate turboprop aircraft in 2027.
Mati Airport, located in Mati City, Davao Oriental, is positioned to become a key regional airport aimed at boosting tourism and trade.
Davao Oriental boasts premier destinations such as Mount Hamiguitan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Dahican Beach in Mati City; and Pusan Point in Caraga, known as the site of the first sunrise in the country.
