The Ninoy Aquino International Airport has been perceived as one of the world's worst international airports for various reported reasons such as theft, bribery, flawed structure, long queues and recently, the "tanim bala" dilemma.
The Guide to Sleeping in Airports, an online page reviewing different airports around the globe, has named NAIA as the 8th worst airport in 2015, the 4th worst airport in 2014 and 1st in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
After President Rodrigo Duterte ordered to end the bullet-planting scheme, more changes are expected in the country's only airport in the capital city.
A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the local airlines on Thursday, promising cleaner toilets at the airport starting next week.
According to DOTC Secretary Arthur Tugade, the move is just one of the many service upgrades travellers can expect the the country's premier gateway.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), currently in charge of the upkeep and maintenance of NAIA, will be able to focus on other facilities such as air conditioning and the CCTV system, now that the responsibility of providing orderly waiting areas and cleaner toilets has been passed to the airlines.
"Expect an operation that is fully CCTV-ized, expect an airport that is communication-friendly, expect our airport where the toilet no longer stinks and the air conditioning works well. Today is a meaningful day. We are taking one big step to address issues that have made people in the republic uncomfortable and angry," Tugade said.
This change in responsiblity is expected to cut more expenses to the airlines but they say they don't mind since this will translate to greater comfort for the passengers.
Philippine Airlines president, Jaime Baustista feels the travellers will be happy about this. "With this, palagay po namin, maraming matutuwang pasahero dito sa ating bansa," he said.
Cebu Pacific president Lance Gokongwei, meanwhile, said that it is an welcome opportunity. "We are very grateful for the opportunity to work with the government and the MIAA to provide an even better service to our passengers, so maraming salamat."
Another great news is that free Wi-Fi service across the country will start rolling out next month.
"In due time all our airports will not only smell fresh and clean; they will also be communication-friendly. We are now working and hopefully we will put it in place, in the next 100 days, free Wi-Fi -- 1 gigabyte in all airports," the Transportation chief said.
Photo: PhilStar
Source: InterAksyon
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