Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista talks about changes made in Manila International Airport, the privatization program, and the progress of the Bulacan airport project. He also discusses the Metro Manila Subway project and how they plan to make it better than the current train system.
Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista outlines changes in Manila International Airport operations
• Rationalization of terminals and assignments implemented.
• The initial checkpoint before entering the airport was removed.
• Convergence program with the Department of Tourism established.
• Additional immigration counters and improved check-in processes were implemented to address congestion.
Privatization of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)
Manila International Airport to be privatized to increase capacity and handle 50 million passengers initially, up to 60 million with infrastructure support.
• Average number of passengers passing through Manila International Airport increased to almost 140,000 a day.
• NEDAM board approved terms of reference for privatization of Manila International Airport.
• Capacity to increase from 32 million to 50 million passengers a year initially, and up to 60 million with infrastructure support.
• Government’s solicited proposal for privatization is for 15 years, while the unsolicited proposal pushed by the new airport consortium is for 25 years.
New Manila International Airport in Bulacan
The plan for the new Bulacan airport includes extending the concession agreement for 15 years, with the possibility of an additional 10 years, and implementing more infrastructure projects.
• The current airport has only two intersecting runways, causing delays.
• The aim is to increase aircraft movements per hour from 38-40 to at least 48, allowing for more passengers.
• Additional terminals or expansion of existing terminals will be needed to support the increased operations.
The Bulacan Airport may be partially operational before the end of President Marcos’ term.
• Development for the airport is almost 70 to 75 percent complete.
• Construction of runways and passenger terminal building will start after the land development is completed.
• Financing is available, and the technical team is working on the plans.
• The Metro Manila Subway is 33 percent complete and will be fully operational in six years.
