Manila airport management transferred to San Miguel consortium at stroke of midnight

In a historic moment for Philippine aviation, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) officially handed over the management of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to San Miguel Corp-led New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC) at the stroke of midnight on Saturday, September 14, 2024.

The formal turnover, signed at exactly 12:00 a.m., marked the beginning of NNIC’s ambitious plan to modernize the country’s main airport.

The ceremony was attended by key officials, including DOTr Undersecretaries Reinier Yebra and Roberto Lim, MIAA general manager Eric Jose Ines, SMC chairman Ramon Ang, and NNIC general manager Lito Alvarez.

DOTr Undersecretary Lim, speaking on behalf of Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista, emphasized the project’s significance for the country's transportation system and economic growth.

"The high public expectation on operational and systems enhancements should translate to improved passenger experience and transform NAIA into a regional hub," Lim said.

Ang expressed excitement about the project, calling it an investment in the country's future.

"A world-class airport means more jobs, more tourists, and a stronger and more prosperous Philippines," he said.

NNIC has committed to immediate improvements, with passengers expected to notice changes by Christmas. Despite challenges, Ang and Alvarez are confident in transforming NAIA into an airport the Filipino people can be proud of.