The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is embracing its new role as the official regulator for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), marking a significant shift in its functions. MIAA General Manager Eric Jose Ines announced this development during his speech at the weekly Flag Raising Ceremony, as the agency transitions under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with the new airport operator, the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC).
Ines emphasized that this transition represents a major transformation for MIAA. As the regulator, MIAA will focus on governmental oversight and ensuring the protection of national interests, both domestically and internationally. The New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation will now handle the airport’s operations and development, with the government looking forward to NNIC’s comprehensive plan for NAIA.
As part of this strategic shift, MIAA has engaged with international specialists to ensure a smooth transition. The collaboration kicked off with a two-day workshop, organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), aimed at equipping MIAA officials with the knowledge and tools necessary for their new regulatory duties. The workshop provides critical insights into the challenges and responsibilities MIAA will face as it steps into its role as the airport’s overseer.
In his address, GM Ines also discussed the ongoing internal reorganization within MIAA. In line with the shift, 844 Plantilla positions have been abolished, particularly those held by employees transitioning to NNIC. These employees will receive their Separation Incentive Pay (SIP) as part of their departure package.
MIAA has already submitted its new organizational structure to the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) for approval. Once implemented, this streamlined structure is expected to enhance MIAA’s regulatory capabilities, ensuring that it can effectively monitor NAIA’s progress and the execution of development plans under the PPP framework.
Ines appealed to the remaining MIAA employees to support the agency’s new mission, noting that their contributions will be crucial to the success of the transformation. The MIAA GM is urging active participation from his team to meet the challenges ahead.