NAIA privatization doable in 2024 – DOTr

MANILA, Philippines — The privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) may be implemented by the first quarter of 2024, an official of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said yesterday.

“That is a very tough and tight schedule. We can say that it is doable in the first quarter of next year. It is doable that there will be a conclusion that could possibly be proclaimed by the government,” DOTr Undersecretary for aviation and airports Roberto Lim said in an interview with ANC.

“That takes time. If there is more than one participant, we will have to talk to all of them. It will take time,” he added.

Lim said the privatization of the airport would have “upsides” in terms of efficiency of passenger and flight movement, as well as more income for the government.

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) would regulate and oversee the operations of concessionaires, according to Lim.

“Generally (there would be) no loss of employment. Airport employees will be offered the opportunity to work when the airport facilities are privatized,” he added.

Lim reiterated that all airport assets at NAIA still belong to the government, with the private concessionaires limited to operations and management roles.

The DOTr and the MIAA last week submitted a joint proposal for a public-private partnership for NAIA.

It is still subject to approval by the National Economic and Development Authority.

Bureau of Immigration Commssioner Norman Tansingco said he hopes that with the privatization, NAIA immigration areas would be made wider and there would be more immigration counters installed. – Evelyn Macairan