Manila, June 9 -- Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep.-elect Francisco Matugas will prioritize measures aimed at ensuring the welfare of both local and foreign tourists visiting Siargao Island.

Matugas will take over his son, Francisco Jose Matugas II, who lost in the gubernatorial race during the May 12 elections.

In an interview on Monday, Matugas said he would work closely with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to improve facilities at Siargao's Sayak Airport in Del Carmen town. He said he had already discussed these plans with DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, who recently visited Siargao.

"Sayak Airport currently handles 18 to 19 flights per day. We are proposing the construction of a modular-type passenger terminal that could cate...