Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1. INQUIRER PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA
The private operator of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) on Thursday said it has implemented new protocols for VIP (very important persons) services to curb misuse of such courtesies.
The New Naia Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) said in a statement that the VIP privileges, which were intended for dignitaries and other important individuals, were easily accessible in the past for P800. For that amount, any passenger could bypass regular airport procedures. NNIC said that it will continue to provide secure and efficient travel service for VIPs and IPs, which include high-ranking officials, dignitaries and foreign representatives. However, to discourage nonessential use and manage demand, NNIC said it will introduce “tailored fees” for passengers not classified as VIPs or IPs but seeking similar services such as international performers and other high-profile passengers. This, according to the company, is consistent with global practices at major airports where premium services are priced at a higher rate, to limit requests while ensuring availability for those who really require them. The NNIC, however, did not mention the new fees for such service. The company’s announcement drew flak from some officials of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), which previously operated Naia until last month but now only exercises regulatory oversight of the airport. The NNIC said VIP courtesies and accommodations will be exclusively handled by NNIC’s VIP Assistance Personnel. VIP entourages will also be limited to essential personnel to ensure efficient processing and reduce disruptions while nonpassengers will no longer be permitted to provide meet-and-greet services or accompany departing VIPs.—JEROME ANING