Lawmakers Call for Probe on NAIA Privatization
Makabayan lawmakers have called for a thorough investigation into the privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). They argue that this move has caused steep increases in airfares and parking fees, affecting many Filipino travelers.
Representatives Arlene Brosas of Gabriela Women’s Party, Raoul Manuel of Kabataan Party-list, and France Castro of ACT Teachers Party-list filed House Resolution No. 2316 on June 4. They urged the House to examine how NAIA privatization has negatively impacted the public, especially regarding the soaring costs of airport services.
Rising Costs and Public Concerns
The lawmakers highlighted that the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) has implemented substantial hikes in airport fees. These increases sparked public concern over the accessibility and affordability of airport facilities for everyday Filipinos.
One significant example cited in the resolution is the new parking fee schedule effective October 1, 2024. Parking charges for the first 24 hours rose drastically from P300 to P1,200. Short-term parking fees also saw sharp increases, making it harder for passengers and visitors to afford airport parking.
Additional Fees Expected to Increase
The resolution also warns that by September 2025, further increments will take effect. These include higher aeronautical charges for landing, takeoff, terminal rental, tacking operations, and aircraft parking. Such changes are expected to burden airlines with increased operational costs.
Impact on Airlines and Consumers
Lawmakers stressed that increased airport fees will force airlines to raise ticket prices or add hidden charges to cover higher expenses. This will directly affect passengers, making flying less affordable.
Cargo and freight services will also feel the impact. The rise in shipping costs could lead to higher prices for goods, which will ripple through the economy. The lawmakers expressed concern that privatizing public assets like NAIA often results in higher costs rather than improvements to the quality of life.
Protecting Public Interest Over Profit
Brosas, Manuel, and Castro emphasized that developing the country’s public infrastructure should remain a responsibility of the State. They argued that handing over essential services to private companies prioritizes profit over people and social welfare.
In their words, “Ang pag-develop ng mga pampublikong imprastruktura ay dapat mandato ng Estado at hindi dapat ipasa sa mga pribadong interes na inuuna ang kita kaysa sa tao at serbisyong panlipunan.”
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