Philippines-based San Miguel Corp announced on Tuesday that the completion of the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan is now expected to be delayed until 2028, primarily due to challenges in obtaining sand for the project. This confirmation follows a report from the local newspaper BusinessWorld, which had earlier reported the anticipated delay of the Php740-billion ($13.15-billion) project.

San Miguel Corp stated in a release that the construction and operation of the Bulacan New Manila International Airport will be delayed due to the shortage of sand, a critical component used for backfilling in the ongoing construction. The company also noted that the suspension of the Government's Manila Bay reclamation projects has restricted access to sand sources.

Additionally, the conglomerate indicated that the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 in Bulacan is also expected to be delayed to 2028, owing to unresolved issues concerning the alignment and location of the San Jose del Monte Station. Earlier this month, the company reported a 66-percent increase in its half-year net income.