North Cotabato Bets on Agro-Industrial Park, Airport as Key Growth Drivers
KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato — Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza has underscored two major infrastructure projects—the Cotabato Agro-Industrial Park (CAIP) and the Central Mindanao Airport (CMA)—as transformative developments poised to boost economic growth and connectivity in the province.
In her recent State of the Province Address, Mendoza described the initiatives as “game-changers” that will unlock new opportunities in agriculture, trade, and tourism.
The Cotabato Agro-Industrial Park has secured PHP271.2 million in funding for key infrastructure, including perimeter fencing, road networks, water and power systems, lighting, and other essential facilities. Once completed, CAIP is expected to serve as Central Mindanao’s first agro-industrial hub, supporting increased agricultural productivity, higher farmer incomes, and sustainable livelihoods.
Meanwhile, the Central Mindanao Airport—formerly known as the North Cotabato Rural Airport or M’lang Airport—is currently under development with a total budget of PHP1.2 billion. Designed to accommodate up to 3.5 million passengers annually, the airport aims to significantly improve regional connectivity and open new avenues for both agricultural trade and tourism.
Mendoza noted that construction of the airport is progressing steadily, with several core components already more than 90 percent complete.
She emphasized that beyond strengthening the agriculture sector, both CAIP and CMA will also serve as vital gateways for tourism, positioning North Cotabato as a strategic hub in the Soccsksargen Region.
While no specific completion dates were provided, the governor highlighted the province’s strong fiscal standing, noting that North Cotabato remains debt-free and recorded a PHP1.2 billion surplus in 2025.
Mendoza also cited the success of the “Serbisyong Totoo” program, which ensures that essential government services remain accessible to residents across the province.
With these major projects underway, North Cotabato is set to enhance its economic landscape, creating more opportunities for farmers, businesses, and local communities.
NPO News Team | DA Press Office - PR
