Former Customs chief Angelito “Lito” Alvarez, now general manager of NNIC, said the tycoon-principals of SMC and Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) have already struck a preliminary deal to establish reliable power supply for the airport.
Alvarez noted that the Meralco substation, which was supposed to be dedicated to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, is also used for other commercial establishments in the area.
A power substation helps regulate the flow of electricity to ensure reliable supply.
As a result of the recent agreement, Meralco will build a new substation at a cost of more than P1 billion, Alvarez said.
“As discussed by Ramon Ang [of San Miguel] and Meralco, headed by Manny Pangilinan, we secured a commitment from Meralco to build a new substation solely for the airport,” Alvarez said during the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines-SMC aviation forum.
“That will be completed in around two years,” he added.
Meanwhile, the consortium will procure generator sets and batteries to ensure ample backup power supply.
Design changes at the airport will also be implemented, including the use of tinted glass to reduce indoor heat, Alvarez noted.
Miguel R. Camus has been a reporter covering various domestic business topics since 2009.
