Manila: Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) will be unaffected by the looming hikes in passenger service charge (PSC) and other fees at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) next month, the airport operator said Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) issued a statement emphasizing the continued exemption for OFWs from terminal fees, countering claims that these adjustments would affect them. The PSC will increase to PHP950 for international travel and PHP390 for domestic flights, marking the first hike in over 20 years. These changes are intended to support ongoing improvements at the airport.
The NNIC explained that the collections from these fees are directly invested in airport operations and passenger service enhancements. Despite the increase, the rates remain below the inflation-adjusted values of PHP1,300 to PHP1,400 for international travel and PHP480 to PHP520 for domestic flights, had they kept pace since 2000.
The San Miguel Corp.-led consortium clarified that the PSC adjustment is not arbitrary but was determined by the government under the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2024. This adjustment was approved by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Cabinet, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) reviewing the rates as an adviser to the government.
Since taking over operations at the country's main gateway in September 2024, NNIC claims significant upgrades have been made, including renovated restrooms, new air-conditioning systems, restored elevators and escalators, new seating, and more baggage trolleys. The airport has also improved Wi-Fi, installed closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs), and constructed wider curbside lanes.
Additional enhancements feature a centralized transportation network vehicle service (TNVS) hub, OFW lounge with rest areas, automated parking, dignitaries' lounge, more shuttle buses and ambulances, and new employee cafeterias. A biometric passenger processing system is also set to launch next month.
