The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has become a focal point for both rising fees and concerns about press freedom following its transition to new management under the San Miguel-led New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC). As the airport undergoes a PHP144 billion modernization project, aimed at transforming NAIA into a world-class travel hub, these recent developments have sparked public discourse.
NNIC recently announced an increase in the airport’s meet-and-assist service fees, with regular services now costing PHP8,000 per passenger for both arrivals and departures. This represents a significant hike from the previous fee of PHP800 per passenger under the former operator, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA). Along with the individual service, NNIC introduced three new service packages for larger groups: PHP50,000 for up to nine passengers, PHP100,000 for up to 20 passengers, and PHP140,000 for up to 30 passengers. However, travelers availing of these services are reminded that the lounge area is excluded.
In addition, NNIC has increased NAIA’s parking fees as of 01 October 2024. According to the corporation, these fee hikes are necessary to sustain and enhance airport facilities, as well as to discourage non-passengers from occupying parking spaces for extended periods.
Alongside the rising fees, journalists have voiced concerns over media access restrictions imposed by the NNIC. Rodini Bing R. Jabadan of thenationweek.com expressed his apprehension about the potential threat to press freedom under the new management. Previously, media personnel had full access to areas like pre-boarding gates, immigration counters, and security checkpoints, which allowed them to report thoroughly on the airport’s daily operations. Now, reporters are limited to the lobby, raising fears of restricted transparency.
Journalists worry that these limitations could lead to the resurgence of illegal activities such as the notorious “tanim bala” extortion scheme, which tarnished NAIA’s reputation in 2015 and 2016. Amid concerns about public accountability, many stakeholders are closely watching how NNIC’s modernization efforts will balance the interests of travelers, workers, and the press.
As NAIA undergoes these changes, the public is eager to see whether the promises of a better airport experience will be fulfilled without compromising transparency and press freedom.