Bacolod City – Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo “Albee” Benitez wants the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to immediately explain the exorbitant parking rates at the Bacolod Silay International Airport in Silay City, Negros Occidental.
In his letter dated February 9, addressed to CAAP Director General Lt. Gen. Raul L. Del Rosario (Ret.), Benitez cited Bacolod City Council Resolution No. 53, Series of 2026, which flagged mounting complaints over the airport’s overnight parking charges in Silay City, Negros Occidental.
The overnight parking fees have risen from P200 to P600.
The congressman said the fees have triggered widespread concern among residents, business owners, overseas workers, and tourism stakeholders who rely on the airport as the primary gateway to Negros Occidental.
“Numerous complaints have reached our office regarding the exorbitant overnight parking cost and its impact on accessibility and convenience at the airport,” Benitez stressed, seeking clear justification for the rates being imposed.
He requested CAAP to disclose the legal basis, computation, and guidelines governing the current overnight parking fees, as well as any plans to reassess or reduce the charges in light of public clamor.
Benitez underscored that Bacolod-Silay Airport plays a crucial role in the province’s economic growth, tourism recovery, and mobility of Negrenses. “Airport services must remain fair, transparent, and affordable. Fees that are perceived as excessive may discourage travel and negatively affect local businesses,” he emphasized.
Benitez said he expects a prompt response from CAAP and concrete steps to address public concerns, reiterating his commitment to protect the interests of Negrenses and ensure accountability in the delivery of public services. (Gilbert Bayoran via tvds)