Manila: Several government agencies on Wednesday signed an agreement to enhance passenger experience through streamlining airport processes at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

According to Philippines News Agency, the agreement was signed between the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA). This move follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure the comfort and convenience of passengers at NAIA.

Under the agreement, the DOTr will authorize the allocation and disbursement of the Immigration Service Charge (ISC) for the BI when additional immigration officers are designated to perform overtime duties not covered under the 2025 General Appropriations budget.

The BI will be responsible for providing 24/7 immigration services to support the MIAA in delivering international standard airport accommodation and service. Moreover, the BI will supply the MIAA with a certified number and list of BI officers and personnel stationed at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 each month.

The MIAA, on its part, will utilize authorized collections to fund the ISC, either in the form of overtime or honoraria under the prescribed rates and guidelines, in accordance with Civil Service Commission (CSC) rules and other pertinent laws and regulations.

During the signing of the agreement, DOTr Senior Undersecretary Giovanni Lopez emphasized the critical role BI personnel at NAIA play in ensuring passenger safety and security while enabling efficient movement. 'Kasunduan natin (Our agreement) with MIAA General Manager [Eric Jose Castro Ines] and BI Commissioner [Joel Anthony Viado] will make sure that we deliver the President's promise to our OFWs, passengers, and international tourists,' Lopez stated.