8 hurt in NAIA-1 ceiling collapse

MANILA, Philippines — Eight people were injured after a portion of a ceiling panel at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 collapsed on Good Friday, the New NAIA Infra Corp. confirmed.

The NNIC said the collapsed ceiling hit eight people, including an 85-year-old well-wisher, at 10:43 a.m. at the West Arrival Curb C outside the passenger terminal building.

According to the NNIC, the injured people – six well-wishers and two transport solicitors – were immediately given medical assistance and were declared out of danger.

One of the victims, who suffered an injury on the forehead, had reportedly asked to be transferred to Makati Medical Center.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez instructed the Manila International Airport Authority and the NNIC to “ensure the safety and security of all passengers and airport personnel, and to submit a detailed report explaining the cause of the incident.”

Sen. Raffy Tulfo, Senate committee on public services chairman, expressed concern over the ceiling collapse as he emphasized the importance of a swift response to ensure the safety of people and of providing victims with immediate and adequate assistance.

Tulfo reminded the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to remain proactive in enforcing safety standards across all airport facilities nationwide. 

According to the DOTr, operations at NAIA Terminal 1 have returned to normal, although the accident site has been cordoned off.

“The DOTr is closely monitoring the situation and expects a thorough assessment of the incident, including the implementation of necessary measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” Lopez said. 

He assured Tulfo of updates as soon as findings and other relevant information become available.

The NNIC said it is working closely with authorities in investigating the incident and has invited the ceiling contractor for questioning. —Marc Jayson Cayabyab