BPIA brings ‘More of Bohol’ to travelers through expanded retail offerings

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Travelers arriving in or departing from Bohol can now take home more of the province through an expanded mix of shops, dining outlets, and locally made products at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA).

Duty Free Philippines, Sunglass Gallery, and Momento are among the new retail concepts at BPIA, alongside locally made products and offerings from Bohol-based enterprises. (CONTRIBUTED)

The airport, operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), has added new commercial concepts as part of efforts to make the passenger experience a reflection of Bohol’s culture, products and tourism offerings.

The expanded retail mix gives passengers more opportunities to experience what Bohol has to offer even before leaving the airport, from food and travel essentials to souvenirs, crafts and other locally made products.

“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.

Uy said the airport’s growing retail offerings are also intended to provide local businesses and artisans with opportunities to reach visitors from different parts of the country and abroad.

Among the new food and beverage outlets at BPIA are House of Fruitas, Jamaican Pattie Shop and Pick Up Coffee, providing passengers with options for meals, snacks and drinks.

The airport’s retail lineup also includes Duty Free Philippines, Momento, Nomad, Tesoros (Filipino Treasures), Island Souvenirs and Sunglass Gallery.

Beyond these commercial brands, BPIA is also giving space to products from local enterprises through the Department of Trade and Industry’s One Town, One Product (OTOP) Program.

The initiative allows travelers to discover Boholano delicacies, handcrafted items, souvenirs, and other products made by community-based enterprises.

For visitors looking for more traditional Bohol souvenirs and pasalubong, the Aproniana Gift Shop in Baclayon offers a selection of local crafts, apparel and delicacies.

The growing presence of local products at the airport positions BPIA not just as a transportation hub but also as part of the overall Bohol tourism experience.

With millions of passengers passing through the gateway, the airport provides local entrepreneurs with a platform to introduce Boholano products to a wider market.

Since ABAC assumed operations of BPIA, the airport has handled more than 2.16 million passengers, underscoring its role in Bohol’s growing domestic and international tourism activity.

As visitor arrivals continue to support the province’s tourism economy, ABAC said improving the airport experience involves more than maintaining safe and efficient operations. It also includes creating spaces that are convenient for travelers while reflecting the identity of the destination.

Through continued partnerships with tourism stakeholders, concessionaires and local enterprises, ABAC said it aims to further enhance the passenger experience while contributing to Bohol’s tourism industry and local economy.