In an ambush interview on Tuesday, 5 March, after aiding indigents in Lucena City, Quezon province, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go addressed the alarming pest infestation at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, urging authorities to take swift and effective measures given the airport’s role as the main gateway of the country.

Go, a member of the Senate Public Services Committee, expressed his concern over reports of bedbugs and rats plaguing NAIA. Highlighting the airport’s importance especially for tourists and local travelers, he emphasized the negative impact such infestations have on the Philippines’ image.

The senator’s comments come from increased passenger complaints and news reports detailing a traveler’s adverse bedbug experience at Terminal 2.

Recent developments have seen the Manila International Airport Authority ramp up its pest control measures and initiate a comprehensive review of its maintenance and sanitation systems.

MIAA general manager Eric Jose Ines acknowledged the sanitary lapses, taking responsibility for the infestation and apologizing to affected individuals. Enhanced sanitation measures have been ordered, including the inspection and fumigation of seating areas and the removal of rattan chairs.

Following the power outages that caused inconveniences at the NAIA, Go, in June last year, has also called on concerned authorities to make necessary efforts to prevent such incidents. He stressed the need to improve services in NAIA, which is the country’s primary gateway.