Airport workers cry foul over privatization

This year's privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport could have a negative impact on over a thousand airport workers.

In this regard, the Association of Airport Workers of the Philippines, which represents the operation and maintenance workers of the NAIA, opposed the imminent takeover of the main airport in the country by a private corporation.

According to SMPP, the takeover will result in the layoff of more than 1,000 employees and will also cause an increase in airport fees that will be borne by thousands of passengers and Overseas Filipino workers.

The union said there is no solid evidence that privatization would benefit workers, passengers, taxpayers, or the public.

This view is also said to have been endorsed by the International Air Transport Association, the global body that represents commercial airlines.

SMPP president Andy Bercasio said after the DoTr called for bidding on 23 August 2023, airport workers were left to fumble for their job security when the private concessionaire took over NAIA.