The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has placed all its emergency response teams on alert as severe tropical storm "Paeng" continues to pound various parts of the country with strong winds and heavy rains.
In a statement, the MIAA said they have started the typhoon preparations since weather experts had warned that "Paeng" would develop into a typhoon.
Among the early preparations at the four terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) were tying down passenger boarding bridges, securing billboards within the vicinity of the four terminals, pruning trees and checking airside and landside facilities.
"The MIAA emergency services are on alert for any aircraft or structural emergency or any need to respond to emergency calls. The warehouse will be kept open for any need for supplies while service vehicles and drivers at the motorpool are ready for dispatch anytime," the statement read.
It added that MIAA food concessionaires have been requested to make available additional stocks in the event passengers of delayed or cancelled flights opt to stay and wait in NAIA.
The agency also said they already advised airline companies to carry out safety protocols employed during severe weather conditions such as securing their ground equipment and evacuating aircraft to safer grounds, if necessary.
Local carriers likewise have employed planned cancellations and delays for the day. Airlines will submit to MIAA their proposed timings and schedule of recovery flights. MIAA has lifted the daily maintenance closure of its main runway to accommodate recovery flights.
"Ground handlers were urged to ensure maximum deployment of ramp and check-in personnel enough to cover any vacuum in succeeding shifts should personnel fail to report for work due to flooding in some areas of Metro Manila," MIAA said in a statement.
MIAA also reminded passengers to monitor flooding on roads leading to NAIA and to stay vigilant of the developing situation: "They are urged to closely monitor airline websites and social media pages before heading to the airport,"
The agency also urged the passengers to contact the following landlines for assistance:
Trunkline: 8877-1109
Local 2181 for Terminal 1
Local 2182 for Terminal 2
Local 2183 for Terminal 3
Local 2184 for Terminal 4
0917-8396242 (NAIA text Hotline)
88771-1111 (NAIA voice Hotline)