MANILA, Philippines —Senate President Pro Tempore Juan Miguel Zubiri would prefer to rename the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) back to Manila International Airport.
In an ambush interview at the Senate, Zubiri was asked for his comment on the proposal of Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves to rename the Naia after former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
“I don’t know what our colleagues will be discussing. Ako, mas pabor naman gawin na lang natin Manila International Airport. Ibalik na lang natin sa original name,” he responded.
(I am more in favor of reverting it to its original name, Manila International Airport.)
“If no one will agree on a particular family name — kasi syempre yellow against red na naman ‘yan — neutral na lang tayo,” he went on.
(If no one agrees on a particular family name — because it will be yellow against red again — let’s be neutral.)
Yellow is associated with the Aquino family, while red is linked with the Marcos family.
(FILE) Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay City. INQUIRER PHOTO / RICHARD A. REYES
Meanwhile, former Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon slammed the proposal, saying there are more urgent issues that the government should address.