New VIP rules in NAIA to discourage ‘misuse’ of services - operator

Metro Manila, Philippines – The private operator the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is carrying out new rules for privileged passenger services to prevent their possible misuse.

In a press release on Thursday, Oct. 10, the New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) said it is replacing its Very Important Persons (VIP) arrangements effective immediately for a “seamless and efficient airport experience.”

“The VIP privileges, which were intended for dignitaries and other important individuals, were easily accessible in the past for PHP800. For that amount, any passenger could bypass regular airport procedures. This not only created potential security vulnerabilities but also led to operational inefficiencies and an unfair advantage for those who could afford to pay,” NNIC said.

Under the new rules, the operator’s assistance personnel will only handle VIP accommodations.

NNIC said it will limit VIP entourages to essential personnel and will not allow non-passengers to provide meet-and-greet services or accompany departing VIPs.

“Access/annual passes previously issued for facilitation purposes will be evaluated on a per-case basis, replacing the previous annual pass system,” the operator said.

VIP courtesies are usually extended to high-ranking officials for security reasons, and foreign dignitaries as a diplomatic practice.

The operator said it will also implement “tailored fees” for people not classified as VIPs but are seeking similar services like international artists and other high-profile passengers.

“This is consistent with global practices at major airports where premium services are priced at a higher rate, to limit requests while ensuring availability for those who really require them,” NNIC said.

The operator took over NAIA’s operations in September, with the goal of modernizing the aging gateway.

NewsWatch Plus correspondent Lance Mejico contributed to this report