Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corp. (ABAC), which operates BPIA, said in a statement that new merchants have joined the airport’s existing concessionaires, giving arriving and departing passengers more options for food, travel essentials, souvenirs and locally made products.
The expansion comes as BPIA has served more than 2.16 million passengers since ABAC assumed operations, reflecting continued domestic and international travel demand for Bohol.
More choices
New and existing food and beverage choices at the airport include House of Fruitas, Jamaican Pattie Shop and Pick Up Coffee, providing passengers with options for meals, snacks and drinks.
BPIA’s retail lineup includes Duty Free Philippines, Momento, Nomad, Tesoros (Filipino Treasures), Island Souvenirs and Sunglass Gallery.
The airport is also providing space for Boholano products through the Department of Trade and Industry’s One Town, One Product (OTOP) Program.
Several stores carry Boholano delicacies, handcrafted products, locally made souvenirs and goods produced by community-based enterprises.
The expanded offerings are intended to make the airport an extension of the Bohol travel experience while giving local businesses and artisans greater exposure to domestic and international visitors.
“For many travelers, the airport is both the first and last stop of their journey. We want that experience to reflect the warmth, creativity, and identity of Bohol,” BPIA general manager Aldwin C. Uy said.
“By welcoming more retail concepts—particularly those showcasing locally made products—we’re creating an airport experience that is more convenient for passengers while providing meaningful opportunities for local businesses and artisans to reach visitors from around the world,” he added.
Local showcase
Beyond the airport, travelers can also find local crafts, apparel and Boholano delicacies at Aproniana Gift Shop in Baclayon, which offers souvenirs and pasalubong products.
ABAC said the commercial additions complement efforts to improve BPIA’s passenger experience as the airport handles increasing tourism traffic.
The company said an airport’s role extends beyond providing safe and efficient operations, particularly in major tourist destinations where terminals can serve as travelers’ first and last impressions of a place.
As Bohol attracts visitors from domestic and overseas markets, ABAC said it would continue working with tourism stakeholders, concessionaires and local enterprises to develop the airport’s commercial offerings.
The airport operator said the initiative is intended to improve convenience for passengers while creating opportunities for local businesses and supporting Bohol’s tourism industry and economy. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
