New DOTr agreement promises faster immigration at NAIA

Passengers flying in and out of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) can expect shorter queues and improved services, thanks to a new agreement signed Wednesday by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA).

The tripartite deal aims to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency at the country's main gateway, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to streamline airport processes and ensure comfort and convenience for travelers.

Transportation Senior Undersecretary Giovanni Lopez emphasized that immigration personnel are key to ensuring the safe and efficient movement of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), local travelers, and foreign tourists.

“Nais ng Pangulo na mabilis, komportable at ligtas ang ating mga pasahero. Itong kasunduan natin with MIAA GM Ines and BI Commissioner Viado will make sure we deliver the President’s promise to OFWs, passengers, and international tourists,” Lopez said during the signing.

Under the agreement, the DOTr will authorize the allocation and release of the Immigration Service Charge (ISC) to fund additional immigration officers who will perform overtime duties not covered in the 2025 national budget.

The Bureau of Immigration, in turn, will provide round-the-clock services to support MIAA’s goal of offering international-standard accommodation and service at NAIA.

The BI will also submit a monthly certified list and headcount of its officers deployed at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3.

MIAA will handle the funding of the ISC from its authorized collections, to be disbursed as overtime pay or honoraria, in line with Civil Service Commission (CSC) regulations and other pertinent laws.

The collaboration is part of the Marcos administration’s broader effort to boost airport service standards under its “Bagong Pilipinas” governance agenda.