PBBM inaugurates upgraded NAIA 3 amenities

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday led the unveiling of new facilities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, advancing the administration’s goal of transforming the country’s main gateway into a more comfortable, efficient, and globally competitive hub.

During the inspection of the upgraded amenities, Marcos highlighted his commitment, made in partnership with New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), to enhance the travel experience and position the Philippines as a “Tourism Powerhouse in Asia.”

“This is not just a matter of infrastructure. It is a matter of compassion — of understanding the fatigue, worries, and anticipation of every Filipino and visitor coming to our country,” Marcos said.

Previous upgrades at NAIA 3 have already resulted in a single-day high of 92 percent on-time performance and the airport receiving its first-ever customer experience accreditation from Airports Council International.

These improvements included strengthened airside operations, improved seating and cooling systems, better restrooms and WiFi, restored equipment, enhanced baggage handling and new mobility options.

Building on these improvements, Marcos and NNIC launched several additional amenities to enhance passenger comfort and convenience.

These include immigration e-gates that allow travelers to clear immigration in as little as 20 seconds, the All-Filipino Food Hall and Mezzanine Food Hall offering more space to rest, dine, and socialize, a Dignitaries Lounge reflecting Filipino hospitality, and a Medical Tourism Concierge Area designed to assist patients with efficiency and compassion.

“This is proof that we respect the time of every traveler and value their dignity — because proper service is the right of every Filipino,” the President said.

Marcos also highlighted the Department of Tourism’s Transit Tour initiative, which allows international passengers with long layovers to explore the country. The program is available to travelers on Philippine Airlines, those connecting through other carriers, and domestic flight passengers.

The improvements are intended to benefit all travelers, including families, the elderly, and overseas Filipino workers.

During the event, the President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos met with returning OFWs, including Rhodora Alcaraz Tuñacao from Hong Kong, who was injured while protecting an infant during a recent apartment fire.

Additionally, the president announced that the Bureau of Customs has begun distributing balikbayan boxes from 130 abandoned container vans to their rightful owners, ensuring delivery before Christmas.